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Energy generation and storage - EduqasEnergy use in context

Energy generation and storage have a huge global impact on our lives - from decisions about the use of fossil fuels and their effect on our environment, to the development of cleaner, more modern ways to create and store energy.

Part of Design and TechnologyCore technical principles

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 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 power calculators and hearing aids, while very large batteries power cars and trucks.

Lithium button-cell batteries displayed on a white background alongside a calculator.
Image caption,
Button-cell batteries in a calculator

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.

A set of four AA rechargeable batteries on charge.

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 batteries lose battery life over time.

Batteries can be to prevent them ending up in . 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 allows the user to generate energy by using muscle power to turn a hand crank. This provides to power the device, requires no additional batteries and is ready to be used whenever the user needs it.

A silver and black wind-up torch against a white background.

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 , through a wall socket or charging unit.

An electric car is being charged with a close up shot of the charging portal.
Image caption,
Electric car connected to a charging unit