Physics 2018 JAMB Past Questions - Question 7: Which of the following best describes the energy changes which take place when a steam engine drives a generator which lights a lamp?

Correct Answer

C

Explanation

Sounds like a journey through energy transformations! Let's break it down. In this scenario, you start with the potential energy stored in fuel, like coal or gas, which is converted into thermal energy when burned to produce steam. The steam then drives the steam engine, converting thermal energy into mechanical energy. The generator takes that mechanical energy and turns it into electrical energy. Finally, the lamp transforms the electrical energy back into light energy. So, it's a chain of energy conversions: potential to thermal to mechanical to electrical to light. Quite the energy adventure!