Question

what type of energy transformation occurs in a power plant where coal is burnt in order to be converted into electrical power?
a potential to kinetic energy
b electrical to sound
c chemical to electrical
d elastic potential to kinetic

Explanation:

1. Analyze option a: Potential energy (stored energy) to kinetic energy (energy of motion) is not related to coal burning for electricity. Coal burning involves chemical energy.
2. Analyze option b: Electrical to sound energy transformation is for devices like speakers, not power plants burning coal.
3. Analyze option c: Coal has chemical energy (stored in its bonds). When burned, this chemical energy is converted into heat, which is then used to generate electrical energy. So this matches the energy transformation in a coal - fired power plant.
4. Analyze option d: Elastic potential energy (energy in stretched/compressed objects) to kinetic energy is for things like springs, not coal - based power generation.

Answer:

c. chemical to electrical