Energy Transformation

 

Examples of Energy Transformation

Energy transformation means the process by which energy changes from one form to another. This happens in both physical changes (where only the state changes, not the substance itself) and chemical changes (where new substances are formed).

1. Physical Changes

In physical changes, energy is usually absorbed or released, but the chemical composition of the substance remains the same.

• Water to Vapor (Evaporation): Thermal energy (heat) from the surroundings is absorbed by water molecules. This increases their motion and allows them to break free from the liquid surface, transforming into vapor.
• Ice to Water (Melting): Thermal energy is absorbed by ice, which weakens the bonds holding water molecules in a solid structure. This turns ice (solid) into water (liquid) without changing its chemical nature (still H₂O).

2. Chemical Changes

In chemical changes, energy is transformed into completely new forms while creating new substances. The bonds between atoms are broken and new bonds are formed.

• Burning Carbon: Chemical energy stored in carbon reacts with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide. During this reaction, heat and light energy are released.
• Dry Cell (Battery): The chemical energy stored in the battery’s chemicals is converted into electrical energy, which can then be used to power devices like torches or radios.
• Electroplating: Electrical energy is supplied to a solution, which drives a chemical reaction. This deposits a thin layer of one metal onto another, showing conversion of electrical energy to chemical energy.

Conclusion:
Energy transformations are constantly happening around us. Whether it is a simple change of state like melting or a complex chemical reaction like burning fuel, the total energy remains conserved but appears in different forms.