Time Schedule:
Eric M Stuve
CHEM E 341
Seattle Campus
Energy use. Fossil energy conversion. Oil, gas, coal resources. Air impacts. Nuclear energy principles, reactors, fuel cycle. Prerequisite: either MATH 112, MATH 124, or Q SCI 291; either CHEM 120, CHEM 142, CHEM 144, PHYS 114, or PHYS 121. Offered: jointly with ENVIR 341/M E 341; A.
Class description
Energy is one of the primary demands of human society. The way we use energy depends on its source and intended application, leading to efforts to expand energy sources and improve energy efficiency. There is a pressing need for energy sustainability, as current energy consumption exceeds that which can be produced sustainably. This course examines current energy usage and sources in societal and individual contexts. The course will integrate energy needs, sources, and conservation as inputs for formulating comprehensive and sustainable energy policy.
Student learning goals
Determine energy consumption of typical devices such as household appliances, automobiles, and consumer electronics.
Understand classes of energy sources (fossil fuels, nuclear, biomass, wind, solar, etc.) and estimate energy content and cost of each.
Determine energy usage as a function of energy class and consumption in both societal (i.e., country) and individual contexts.
Compare energy usage and costs among different societies and analyze in terms of societal norms.
General method of instruction
Lectures, homework, exams, project, and in-class discussion.
Recommended preparation
Prerequisites: 1st quarter calculus plus either 1st quarter chemistry or 1st quarter physics.
Class assignments and grading
There are six homework assignments, two exams, and one project.
Grades are based on weighted scores of homework, exams, and project.
