GCSE Physics - Energy Resources - Renewables & Non-renewables | Uses | Sources of Electricity

Introduction to Energy Resources00:00:07

For most of human history, wood was the primary energy source. However, in the last 200 years, there has been a significant shift towards non-renewable resources like coal, oil, natural gas, and nuclear energy. The past 50 years have also seen a rise in renewable resources such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, and biofuels.

Energy Use for Transport00:01:05

In the UK, a large portion of energy is used for transport, including cars, trains, planes, and ships. These primarily rely on fossil fuels like petrol, diesel (for road vehicles), and kerosene (for planes). While trains historically used coal, most are now electric. Biofuels and electric cars are becoming more common.

Energy Use for Domestic Purposes00:01:59

Domestic energy use covers household activities like cooking and heating. Natural gas is the main source for heating, burned to warm water circulated through radiators. Coal can also be used in fireplaces. Renewable heating sources include solar water heaters and burning biofuels.

Sources of Electricity00:02:47

Electricity itself is neither renewable nor non-renewable; its source determines its classification. In the UK, almost 60% of electricity comes from fossil fuels, and non-renewables collectively account for nearly 80%, indicating a vast majority of electricity is from non-renewable resources.