Energy Systems and Prime Movers

There are 4 energy systems: Thermal, Electrical, Mechanical and Fluid A prime mover is present in each system

A difference or change in(∆) gradient (usually high to low) in an energy system causes movement (hence “mover”)

Depending on the system and prime mover, there will either be movement of mass(mechanical), temperature difference(thermal), electrons(voltage) or fluids (pressure)

System Prime Mover Symbol

Mechanical Force (a change in) ∆F

Thermal Temperature Difference(change in)

∆T

Electrical Voltage (change in) ∆V

Fluid Pressure (change in) ∆P

Energy Systems and Prime Movers

In many cases, energy systems work in combination with one another

A chemical and mechanical planar used as part of the computer chip making process in a semiconductor factory relies on all 4 systems:

CMP machine

Complete: R.A.#2: pp.2-5 Workbook and Questions

Questions

1. What is a prime mover?2. How many are there in total?3. List each prime mover and the system to which it

belongs.4. What is force?5. How does force relate to the prime movers?6. Identify 1 practical item from your reading that

is an example of each system and its prime movers.

7. A “change in” or “difference in” a prime mover is required for an energy system to be present. What greek letter(symbol and word) is used to represent a “change in” or “difference in”?