L1 - Using Energy
Introduction
In this lesson you will investigate the energy changes that occur during the chemical reactions involved in photosynthesis, cellular respiration, and combustion. You will learn how these reactions are part of the carbon cycle.
As you work through the lesson, you will be planning an ecotour. As an ecotour operator, you are responsible for your clients and for their impact on the environment in which your tour operates. Planning your ecotour will require you to consider how energy changes relate to situations outside of a chemistry laboratory. You will investigate how the energy content of food is determined and how the principles used to collect energy are applied to other technologies. You will use what you learn to create a list of foods to offer the participants in your ecotour.
You will need to keep your clients well-fed by offering them appropriate foods. While there are many qualities to consider when selecting food, in this case you will focus on the energy content of food. To get an idea of how much food your clients will need, you will do an inventory of and evaluate your own personal energy intake and needs.
Energy is involved in every activity. In this lesson you will investigate the quantity of energy you intake to support your daily activities.
Consider the following questions as you complete Lesson 1:
- How does society use the energy of chemical changes?
- How do you use the energy of chemical changes in your life?
- How is energy quantified?