Energy and Its Many Forms

Energy is a treasure to be intelligently managed and developed. The modern world thrives on energy. Indeed, it has become a necessary part of our existence for heating, cooking, transportation, communications, and manufacturing of goods. This book describes important sources of energy and the abundance, strengths, and drawbacks of each. Major sources of energy covered are: • Solar photovoltaic and solar thermal • Wind • Geothermal • Hydroelectric • Petroleum products • Biofuels • Natural gas • Coal • Hydrogen • Nuclear fission and nuclear fusion. Other associated topics treated include: • Energy use by personal vehicles including gasoline, electric, hybrid gasoline-electric, natural gas, and hydrogen powered • Energy use for transport of freight and passengers • Energy Storage. The author draws on over 40 years experience in a wide range of engineering disciplines to tell the story of these sources of energy. Practical experience is augmented by master's degrees in electrical engineering, physics, and business administration.