How many primary sources of energy do we have?

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SUMMARY

The discussion identifies three primary sources of energy on Earth: nuclear fusion from the Sun, nuclear fission from the Earth, and gravitational forces from the Moon. The Sun is emphasized as the foundational source, with all other energy forms being secondary or derivative. The conversation also introduces the concept of a potential fourth source, the annihilation of matter, and suggests that wind energy could be considered a 3.5th source due to its solar and Earth rotation influences.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of nuclear fusion and fission processes
  • Knowledge of gravitational forces and their effects on tides
  • Familiarity with energy sources and their classifications
  • Basic concepts of planetary formation and solar system dynamics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mechanisms of nuclear fusion and its applications
  • Explore the principles of nuclear fission and its role in energy production
  • Investigate the impact of gravitational forces on ocean tides
  • Learn about the potential of matter annihilation as an energy source
USEFUL FOR

Scientists, energy researchers, environmentalists, and anyone interested in understanding the fundamental sources of energy on Earth and their interrelationships.

mios76
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I think we have 3 primary sources on the Earth.

1st – Sun (nuclear fusion)
Coal, oil, water dam – it would not exist without the Sun

2nd – Earth (nuclear fission)
Hot geysers

3rd – Moon (gravitational force)
When it moves ocean waters

Anything else is just a secondary energy source.

There could be 4th source of energy in the future. Annihilation of matter.

What do you think?
 
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If you want to differentiate between those that are a result of the sun in the first place and those that aren't... they all are. Earth would never have existed if the majority of the original cloud had not exerted enough gravitational influence to allow it to coalesce.
 
I see. Every particle heavier than hydrogen is a product of a nuclear fusion of a star, which existed before our Sun. The heaviest particles were created during that explosion.

So, I could say that there is the only one primary source of energy – nuclear fusion.
 
Nuclear fission reactors do not have a source recently related to a star. Nuclear fusion on Earth would also not be Sun based nuclear fusion.
 
Wind is a 3.5th. It is mostly solar powered, but the general orientation of winds comes from Earth rotation. Also interrelated with tides.
 

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