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The energy universe
Choose a domain, then move into topics, technologies, and questions. The map is the same one used in the header.
Fusion and fission
Fusion
The power that lights the stars
Nuclear fusion joins light nuclei and can release large amounts of energy. On Earth it remains an experimental path toward a low-carbon, fuel-abundant heat source.
ExploreNuclear Energy
Heat from splitting heavy nuclei
Nuclear fission power plants convert heat from splitting heavy nuclei into electricity. The topic also covers radiation, fuel, waste, and safety.
ExploreRenewables
Solar
Electricity and heat from sunlight
Solar energy includes photovoltaic conversion of light into electricity and concentrating systems that use sunlight as heat.
ExploreWind
Kinetic energy of moving air
Wind turbines convert the kinetic energy of air into rotational energy and then into electricity.
ExploreHydro
Power from falling and moving water
Hydropower uses the gravitational potential or kinetic energy of water. It also includes tidal, wave, and some ocean-current concepts.
ExploreGeothermal
Heat from inside the Earth
Geothermal systems use heat stored in rock and fluids below the surface for electricity or direct heating.
ExploreBiomass
Energy stored in living matter
Biomass energy uses organic matter — wood, residues, dedicated crops, or wastes — for heat, electricity, or fuels.
ExploreSystems and carriers
Electricity
Generation, grids, and control
Electricity is a form of energy in transit. Power systems generate it, move it, and keep frequency and voltage within limits.
ExploreEnergy Storage
Shifting energy through time
Storage absorbs energy when it is plentiful and releases it later. Technologies differ in duration, efficiency, and scale.
ExploreHydrogen
An energy carrier, not a well
Hydrogen can store and move energy. It is not a primary energy source like sunlight or uranium; it must be produced.
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