Energy use in context
Batteries
The two main types of batteries that are commonly used are 鈥榮ingle-use鈥 and 鈥榬echargeable鈥. The single-use batteries, sometimes referred to as primary types, are commonly alkalineHas a pH greater than 7 - an alkaline battery has an alkaline electrolyte of potassium hydroxide unlike previous batteries that used acidic electrolytes. batteries, and these are readily available in supermarkets and shops.
All batteries are available in a range of sizes and shapes - tiny batteries known as button-cell batteryA small, flat, single-cell battery that is between 5 mm and 25 mm in diameter, giving it a shape like a button. power calculators and hearing aids, while very large batteries power cars and trucks.
Once a battery runs out it has to be replaced unless it is rechargeable, in which case it is connected to a mains power source to be recharged.
Rechargeable batteries:
- are more expensive to purchase than single-use batteries
- can be recharged
- are more economical in the long term
- have a limited lifespan
Rechargeable batteries can only be recharged a number of times before they lose battery life, in the same way as smartphoneA mobile phone with a powerful processor that is capable of running applications and accessing the internet. batteries lose battery life over time.
Batteries can be recycledUsed materials that have been reprocessed to make new materials. to prevent them ending up in landfill sitesPlaces where refuse is buried underground.. Batteries contain harmful chemicals and metals that are bad for the environment if disposed of incorrectly; these elements can contaminate the ground or poison the wildlife that may eat them.
Wind-up energy
A wind-up mechanismKinetic energy powers a device when muscle power is used to turn a hand crank. allows the user to generate energy by using muscle power to turn a hand crank. This provides kinetic energyEnergy which an object possesses by being in motion. to power the device, requires no additional batteries and is ready to be used whenever the user needs it.
Modern manufacturing
Many global companies are increasing the use of renewable energy sources within their offices, retail spaces and manufacturing sites. This creates clean energy while reducing a company鈥檚 greenhouse gas emissions each year.
Electric vehicles
Electric vehicles are powered by an electric motor, rather than a tradition combustion engine that runs on petrol or diesel as a source of fuel. Electric vehicles create fewer exhaust emissions compared to a vehicle with a petrol engine. When the energy stored inside the motor has run out, the batteries are recharged using energy supplied from the National GridThe network that connects all of the power stations in the country to make sure that everywhere has access to electricity., through a wall socket or charging unit.