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Energy: Nuclear Energy

Related Article: Learn more about nuclear power.

Nuclear energy used to produce electricity does not release pollutants into the environment unless there is an accident, at which point very harmful radioactive materials are released.

browse videos in energy production

New Wind Energy Technologies (2:13)

Watch this video about wind energy on HowStuffWorks. Wind is the fastest growing energy source in the world and here in the U.S., wind farms have popped up in more than 30 states, producing enough energy to power an estimated 2.5 million homes a... More »

Invention Nation: Solar Panels (1:22)

Take a closer look at the technology used to build solar panels. Learn more about solar cells in this video.

Energy Policy: Searching for Natural Gas (1:43)

John Hofmeister, President of Shell Oil Corp., stresses the importance of discovering and utilizing new outlets of natural gas and oil. Learn more about alternative fuel pricing in this video.

Energy Policy: Alternative Fuel Technology (1:28)

John Hofmeister, President of Shell Oil Corp., discusses the role of technology in alternative fuels. Learn more about alternative fuel technology in this video.

Solar Farm (1:40)

From the archives of Discovery: Solar energy is mass-produced on a large farm of solar panels. Learn more about solar power, solar farms and alternative energy in this video.

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Simply Science: Let's Compare (3:50)

This section compares the energy efficiency of different energy sources.

Simply Science: Harnessing Energy From Fossil Fuels (6:01)

Check out this video on harnessing energy from fossil fuels in this video from HowStuffWorks.

Simply Science: Harnessing Hydroelectric Energy (2:26)

Water wheels use the kinetic energy of flowing water to do work. The hydrologic cycle produces the water used by water wheels and today’s hydroelectric plants.

Simply Science: Harnessing Solar Energy (3:45)

Learn more about solar energy in this video from HowStuffWorks.

Understanding Magnetism: All About Magnetism (50:00)

In this video, find out how magnetic forces were first discovered and how magnetism affects humans and other animals. Explore the role of magnetism in computers, audio recording, medicine and travel.

Understanding Electricity: How Electricity Works (55:59)

Electricity has dramatically changed lifestyles in much of the world, but how does it work? In segments that cover television technology, the harnessing of electricity and electromagnetic power, students examine electricity.

Energy Converters: A Review (1:47)

We could not exercise or live if we did not convert energy. All organisms, whether producers or consumers, need to absorb and convert energy. That energy is noticeable only when it is converted from one form to another.

Solar Energy in the Biosphere: A Review (1:09)

The flow of energy through the biosphere sustains life on Earth, and in this way the planet is similar to a spaceship traveling through space. Like any other crew of astronauts, we must take care of our life support systems.

Power Up: A Review (2:05)

This clip reviews the concepts of energy use and alternative sources of energy.

Power Up: Everyday Energy Conservation (3:16)

Ways of reducing our dependence on fossil fuels include turning off lights when not needed, using fans rather than air conditioning, turning down thermostats in winter, insulating homes better and not using cars for short trips.