Energy stores
Jonny Nelson introduces an animated explanation of energy stores
There are a number of different ways in which energy can be stored. Energy can be transferred from one to another by working and heating.
Some examples of everyday energy stores are:
- The energy stored by an object lifted up against the force of gravity. Also known as GPE. ‐ the energy stored in water at the top of a mountain is used for hydroelectric power
- Energy which an object possesses by being in motion. ‐ the energy stored in a flywheel is used as an alternative to traditional batteries in a hybrid car
- A more formal term for heat energy. ‐ the energy stored in the concrete blocks of a night storage heater is released during the day
- Radioactive materials, usually uranium or plutonium, used in nuclear reactors. ‐ the energy stored in the nucleus of an atom of uranium is released when the atom undergoes nuclear fission
- A type of stored energy. It is taken in when chemical bonds break, and given out when chemical bonds are made. ‐ the energy stored in the chemicals of a battery or in the fuel at a power station is transferred as an electric current to do work on domestic appliances
Learn more on energy stores and systems in this podcast
Listen to the full series on BBC Sounds.