Powering the Future: New Energy Technologies

by Eva Thaddeus

Overview

Can you power a car with pond weed? In searching for alternatives to fossil fuels, scientists are like detectives. They pursue clues—including investigating algae as a possible new energy source.

This book takes young readers inside laboratories to watch as scientists grapple with finding safe and cost-effective ways to harness alternative energy sources. Solar, wind, nuclear, geothermal, and biomass are discussed, and also introduced are futuristic technologies on the cutting edge of research today.

Thaddeus shares her conversations with scientists and plunges young readers into the world of practical science—of how researchers work on problems important to everyone. Their quest for renewable energy sources is a fascinating exploration of possible answers to the question, How will we fuel our future?

Geothermal vents with their steamy plumes, wind turbines and transmission lines silhouetted against the sky, the arrays of glistening mirrors that make up concentrating solar panels—these scenes offer glimpses of the future of energy. Because much of the best research on alternative sources of energy is conducted in New Mexico, Thaddeus highlights the important work found throughout the state.

Powering the Future will awaken young people's interest in the topic of energy by showing them how science plays a vital role in their lives today and for years to come.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780826349019
Publisher:	University of New Mexico Press
Publication date:	08/16/2010
Series:	Barbara Guth Worlds of Wonder Science Series for Young Readers
Pages:	131
Product dimensions:	7.00(w) x 10.00(h) x 0.70(d)
Age Range:	10 - 14 Years

About the Author

Eva Thaddeus is a published novelist and an educator with ten years of experience in elementary school classrooms. She lives in Albuquerque and served as a member of the Governor's Climate Change Advisory Group in New Mexico.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 A World of Energy 1

Climate in Peril 6

Spotlight on New Mexico 10

Chapter 2 Hotbed of Energy Research 11

Chapter 3 Harnessing the Atom 23

How Nuclear Fission and Fusion Work 32

Spotlight on France 33

Nuclear-Powered Spacecraft 34

Chapter 4 Energy Under Our Feet 35

The Story of Fenton Hill 42

Spotlight on the Philippines 47

Chapter 5 Solar Powered 49

Spotlight on Spain 69

Spotlight on Germany 69

Chapter 6 Reducing Our Use 71

Spotlight on Japan 89

Chapter 7 Weird Fuels on the Way-Or, Can You Power a Pickup with Pond Scum? 91

Spotlight on Brazil 99

Chapter 8 Into the Future 101

If You Want to Know More About Powering the Future 107

Glossary 111

Illustration Credits 119

Index 123