Science project idea on the sun as a source of energy.
The Sun as Source of Energy Science Project Idea
 The question of energy and the work it makes possible has been an important part of almost every project and problem we have considered. It seems wise, however, to get together the knowledge we have already gained concerning work and energy and especially to take up the question of how man makes use of energy to contribute to his own comfort and to carry on the work of the world As the sun has been frequently mentioned as the great source of energy, our first project may well be the sun.
You will recall that we came to the conclusion that the energy of water power and of food and fuel could be traced back to the sun. Explain,  therefore: (a) The relation of the sun's energy to water power. Into what other forms may the mechanical energy of water power be transformed? (b) How the energy of the human body may be traced back to the sun. (c) How the energy obtained from the burning of coal and wood is really energy derived from the sun.
There is reason to believe that petroleum from which gasoline, kerosene, paraffin, and similar compounds are obtained, and natural gas, which in many parts of the country is used for fuel and lighting purposes, have been formed as a result of decomposition of animal and plant deposits. What, therefore, is the source of energy exerted by the engine of the automobile and airplane? What do you consider to be the source of the energy of alcohol which may become the great fuel of the future if the supply of petroleum becomes exhausted. Alcohol is made by the action of yeast upon sugar.  The energy of winds also may be referred back to the sun's energy. Wind is not only used to propel ships but also to run windmills which are used especially for pumping water and grinding grain. The windmills of Holland are of considerable historic interest, but American manufacturers are producing more efficient windmills than those of Europe. In some agricultural districts the windmill is very generally used for pumping water, although in recent years it is being replaced to a great extent by the gasoline engine. Suggest reasons for this.
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