What is coal used for?
Coal is primarily used for several purposes, which include:
- Energy Production: Coal is burned to produce heat energy which can be used directly for heating or converted into electricity.
- Powering Steam Turbines: Coal is often used in power plants where it is burned to produce steam. This steam drives turbines that generate electricity.
- Producing Electricity: Coal is a major fuel source for electricity generation through various methods, particularly in steam power plants.
What is the difference between energy and electricity?
- Energy is a broad concept that refers to the capacity to do work. It can take various forms, including thermal, mechanical, chemical, and electrical energy.
- Electricity is a specific form of energy that results from the movement of charged particles (electrons). It is one of the useful forms of energy and is used to power a wide range of devices and applications.
In summary, energy is a general term encompassing all forms of energy, while electricity is a specific type of energy.
What is natural gas used for?
Natural gas is used for multiple purposes, including:
- Powering Steam Turbines: Similar to coal, natural gas can be combusted to produce steam, which drives turbines to generate electricity.
- Energy Production: Natural gas is used for heating and cooking, as well as industrial processes.
- Producing Electricity: Natural gas is also commonly used in gas-fired power plants for electricity generation, often in combined cycle plants for higher efficiency.
In many contexts, all listed options (A, B, and C) for natural gas can be correct, as it serves multiple roles in energy and electricity production.