A
Anaerobic: without oxygen
C
Chemical Energy: energy stored between the bonds of molecules
E
Electron: one of the three particles that make up an atom. Electrons have a negative electrical charge
G
Gamma Radiation: high energy, short wavelength electromagnetic radiation emitted from the nucleus of an atom
Generator: connected to a turbine, a generator will convert mechanical energy to electrical energy
Greenhouse Gases: refers to those gases which trap heat with in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide
H
Hydrocarbons: substances consisting of hydrogen and carbon. Mainly refers to fossil fuels.
K
Kinetic Energy: the energy of an object due to its motion. Kinetic energy depends on the mass and velocity of an object
L
Law of Conservation of Energy: energy cannot be created or destroyed; it can only be converted from one form to another
M
Mantle: refers to the layer under the Earth's crust and above the Earth's outer core
Mechanical Energy: a combination of potential and kinetic energy.
N
Neutron: one of three basic particles making up an atom. Its mass is about the same as a proton. Neutrons have no electrical charge (considered neutral)
P
Photons: "packets" of light
Photosynthesis: process of using energy in sunlight to convert water and carbon dioxide into carbohydrates and oxygen.
Plankton: tiny animal and plant life drifting in water
Potential Energy: the energy stored in an object due to its position. A raised object will have potential energy. Potential energy is dependant on the mass and height of an object
Proton: One of the three basic particles making up an atom. Protons have a positive electrical charge
T
Turbine: a machine consisting of a bladed wheel connected to a shaft. Pressure and kinetic energy from fluids or steam are converted to mechanical energy through a turbine
V
Voltage: electrical potential; the measure of the difference in electrical energy between two points. Voltage is measured in Joules per Coulomb.