Skip to content
Skip to main content

About this free course

Become an OU student

Download this course

Share this free course

An introduction to energy resources
An introduction to energy resources

Start this free course now. Just create an account and sign in. Enrol and complete the course for a free statement of participation or digital badge if available.

S278_2 Glossary

S278_2 Glossary.

Browse the glossary using this index

Special | A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z | ALL

P

Photosynthesis

A chemical reaction in green plants in which carbon dioxide from the atmosphere combines with water to form carbohydrates, using the energy of solar radiation.

Photovoltaic (PV) effect

The result of electrons being freed from impurities in semiconductors by the quantum energy of light photons, so that the electrons move to generate both electrical potential and current. The principle behind solar cells.

Potential energy

Mechanical energy that exists by virtue of position or potential in a force field — usually that of gravity.

Power

The rate at which energy is delivered or work is done, measured in watts (W). One watt is equivalent to one joule per second.

Primary energy

The energy released by directly burning fossil fuels or consumed at source in electricity generation.