The Session 1 introduces the physical definition of energy, the essential role of energy in our life, society and industrialized economy illustrated by the worldwide Energy Mix since 1800.
Human activities do not "produce" nor "consume" energy.
Human activities convert energy from one form to another.
There is a very strong correlation between the GDP and the quantity of energy input in the economy.
How much energy does it take to toast a slice of bread? Human body ability to generate energy is very small compared to our daily 'consumption': how many Roberts do you need ?
Massive economic gains were enabled thanks to the quantity of energy mobilized by machines vs. human work and their low-cost compared to human cost.
"Energetic slaves" is a provocative concept developed by Jean-Marc Jancovici illustrating them well: the individual average energy consumption in rich countries is such that it would require several hundred energetic slaves, had it been produced by human beings.
The 3 major engines are: steam, electric and internal combustion.
Discover how these engines work in motion!
The Session 1 alternates many formats to create a dynamic and interactive course for the students: quiz, video and lectures.