1: a bird flying
2: a chair cushion that is warmed by sunlight
3: a toaster that turns on when plugged in
4: a blast produced by a nuclear bomb
While all four items involve energy, the first three examples demonstrate natural or man-made processes that rely on energy in a more positive or constructive way. On the other hand, the fourth example highlights the destructive power of nuclear energy.
1: The bird flying requires energy from its muscles to flap its wings and stay airborne. It utilizes this energy to move, hunt for food, and migrate.
2: The chair cushion being warmed by sunlight is an example of passive solar energy. The sunlight heats the cushion, converting solar energy into thermal energy, providing warmth and comfort.
3: The toaster turning on when plugged in is utilizing electrical energy. When electricity flows through the toaster from an electrical outlet, it powers the heating elements, converting electrical energy into thermal energy, which is used to toast bread.
4: A blast produced by a nuclear bomb involves the immense release of nuclear energy. This occurs through either nuclear fission or fusion, where the atomic nucleus is split or merged, respectively, resulting in a massive release of energy. Sadly, the energy released in a nuclear bomb explosion is highly destructive, causing devastation and loss of life.