Electrical Energy

Which situation shows electrical to light energy transformation?

• Switching on a lamp

• Lighting a matchstick

• Turning on an air conditioner

• Reheating dinner in the gas oven

Answer explanation

Yes! Light bulbs convert electrical energy into light energy as well as some heat energy.

If I built a circuit with a globe, electrical wires and a switch, would my light turn on?

• Yes

• No

Answer explanation

You need a power source, like a battery, to turn the light globe on.

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Electrical energy is transformed into other forms when appliances are used which could result in high electricity bills for your parents. How can you help at home to conserve electrical energy?

• Put all the clothes washing in the dryer, it's much faster than hanging them on the line.

• Turn on the TV when you are on your computer or iPad, you like the background noise.

• Turn off appliances when they are not being used.

• Leave the lights on when you leave the room, it saves having to switch them on again.

Answer explanation

Yes, turning off appliances and lights conserves energy.

Switching appliances off at the wall actually saves power by reducing the use of standby power.

Putting the washing in a dryer saves time, but it is one of the most power hungry home appliances.

Does an electrical insulator allow electricity to flow through it?

Answer explanation

An electrical insulator is a material that does not allow an electric current to flow freely.

Did you know that you can also insulate against other energies, like heat and sound?

Does a conductor allow electricity to flow through it?

Answer explanation

YES!! An electrical conductor, is a substance or material that allows electricity to flow through it.

Did you know a conductor can also direct an orchestra or collect your tickets on a bus?????

Which items are electrical insulators?

• rubber

• paper

• glass

• aluminium foil

Answer explanation

Porcelain and glass are the most common insulators in Australian overhead powerlines.

Birds can sit on powerlines without getting electrocuted, as long as they have both claws on the same wire and are not touching the ground. Makes you think, doesn't it??

Which items are electrical conductors?

• wool

• paper clip

• coins

• dirty water

Answer explanation

Interestingly, if a bird were to touch two overhead wires at once, it would create a circuit. Meaning electricity would flow through the bird and likely electrocute it. Poor bird!

Why do you think William Kamkwamba's story is so important for the rest of the world?

• His windmill demonstrates the importance of sustainable energy.

• He got to go to America.

• He succeeded at erecting a windmill, which brought electricity, light and the promise of a better life to his home and community.

• He shows us that through effort and perseverance, anyone can make a positive difference in the world.

Answer explanation

"Trust yourself and believe. Whatever happens, don't give up" William Kamkwamba.

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What is the difference between renewable and non-renewable energy?

Answer explanation

The difference between these two types of resources is that renewable resources can naturally replenish themselves while non-renewable resources cannot.

This means that non-renewable resources are limited and cannot be used sustainably.

What are the disadvantages of wind power?

• Wind is unreliable.

• Too much wind can make the blades spin too fast.

• Wind farms lead to noise and visual pollution.

• Wind is free.

Answer explanation

Wind power is a popular sustainable energy source that has a much smaller impact on the environment than burning fossil fuels. However it can be unreliable, noisy and visually unappealing.