Hook
Why can't engines be perfect?
- Every conversion spreads energy.
- Define useful energy operationally.
Units / Unit B / Thermodynamic Laws and Useful Energy
Thermodynamic Laws and Useful Energy
Energy transformations in devices; first and second law; useful energy (B-GO3-SO1–SO4).
Outcome checklist
Alberta Program of Studies — tick each row when you can explain it without the slide.
- B-GO3-SO1
By the end of this lesson you should be able to: Describe, qualitatively and in terms of thermodynamic laws, the energy transformations occurring in devices and systems (e.g., automobile, bicycle coming to a stop, thermal power plant, food chain, refrigerator, heat pump, permafrost storage pits for food)
Self-check: Without looking at your notes, give one example or explanation that shows you meet B-GO3-SO1.
- B-GO3-SO2
By the end of this lesson you should be able to: Describe how the first and second laws of thermodynamics have changed our understanding of energy conversions (e.g., why heat engines are not 100% efficient)
Self-check: Without looking at your notes, give one example or explanation that shows you meet B-GO3-SO2.
- B-GO3-SO3
By the end of this lesson you should be able to: Define, operationally, "useful" energy from a technological perspective, and analyze the stages of "useful" energy transformations in technological systems (e.g., hydroelectric dam)
Self-check: Without looking at your notes, give one example or explanation that shows you meet B-GO3-SO3.
- B-GO3-SO4
By the end of this lesson you should be able to: Recognize that there are limits to the amount of "useful" energy that can be derived from the conversion of potential energy to other forms in a technological device (e.g., when the potential energy of gasoline is converted to kinetic energy in an automobile engine, some is also converted to heat; when electrical energy is converted to light energy in a light bulb, some is also converted to heat)
Self-check: Without looking at your notes, give one example or explanation that shows you meet B-GO3-SO4.
- B-GO3
Big idea: Apply the principles of energy conservation and thermodynamics to investigate, describe and predict efficiency of energy transformation in technological systems
Self-check: How does today's lesson connect to B-GO3?
Where this shows up later
- Unit B — Alberta energy systems: Efficiency limits real power generation.
Lab and demo watch-outs
Classroom safety
Follow school rules for equipment, goggles, and fire safety even during thought experiments.
Any time hands-on work is suggested.
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