The Physics of Energy
MIT OpenCourseWare's Physics of Energy covers the fundamental laws governing how energy is sourced, extracted, transmitted, stored, degraded, and used. Topics include wind power limits, solar photovoltaic operation, Ocean Thermal Energy Converters, the physics behind global warming, engine efficiency, and how nuclear reactors work along with their realistic hazards. Designed originally for MIT sophomores through seniors, the course applies core physics concepts like thermodynamics and electromagnetism to real energy systems rather than treating energy as an abstract policy topic. Materials include lecture notes, problem sets, and exams from the MIT course, free to access through OCW with no certificate offered. It suits students who already have a physics background and want to see how those tools explain the mechanics of both renewable and conventional energy technologies.