Physics of Sustainable Energy

Special mathematical preparation beyond that necessary for admission to UCLA in freshman standing not required. Discussion of physics underpinnings of energy sources and consumption, with emphasis on renewables. Global view of energy balance in our lives from point of view of physical processes. Ways in which energy is used in everyday life (transportation, heating, cooling), and ways in which it is produced, covering all common and speculative sources of energy from fossil fuels to solar, wind, nuclear, and fusion. Fundamental physical limitations of each technology to master concepts such as efficiency of thermodynamic cycles and of chemical and nuclear reactions. Quantitative estimation of amount of energy students use in their daily lives and what physical processes could produce it.

P/NP or letter grading.