Energy

This Unit introduces students to the very important concept - energy. Students are first introduced to the different forms of energy and their interconvertibility through a series of activities. They are also presented with the energy conversion in a range of common devices.

The importance of controlled energy conversion is brought out through a case study on a gas explosion. Safety in the transportation, storage and use of fuel is simultaneously highlighted.
A survey on the kinds of fuel and energy sources used in Hong Kong is included in this Unit.

Students should recognise that electricity is the most common source of energy used at home since it is a clean and convenient form of energy at the consumer end. The pollution problems arising from the generation of electricity should be discussed.

Through the analysis of data showing the world trend in energy usage and the amount of energy resources available on Earth, students should become aware that energy resources are limited and consider the possible long-term implications. In this connection, they should be given opportunities to discuss how society might make decisions about energy issues.

All students should
1 be able to distinguish the different forms of energy
2 be able to identify the initial and final forms of energy in an energy change
3 be familiar with some common energy converters
4 be aware of the need to control energy conversions
5 be able to take appropriate safety precautions when using fuels
6 be able to explain why electricity is the most common energy source used at home
7 be able to state the energy changes in generating electricity from fuels
8 be able to state some examples of alternate energy resources
9 be aware of man's increasing need for energy and the finite energy source available to man
10 show concern for pollution problems arising from the generation of electricity
11 recognise the need to conserve energy in daily life and demonstrate commitment to it

The more able students should
be aware of some of the safety problems associated with the storage and transportation of fuels