ABSTRACT
We are all familiar with the term energy. We know that energy can be derived from water bodies, solar radiation, fossil fuels or nuclear fission. We know it can be transported by media such as electricity, and put to use far from its source. However, when we consider how the term ‘energy’ is used in the sciences, we find a concept which is far from easy to grasp. In this section we consider the basic concepts which allow us to understand what is meant by ‘energy’, what the related terms ‘power’ and ‘work’ mean in a scientific context, and what the fundamental characteristics of energy are. It is also worth noting that while a great deal is known about the properties of energy, exactly what energy is remains one of the most fundamental mysteries of science.
