Finite
Finite means that there is a limited amount of something. Finite fuels are also known as non-renewable. Fossil fuels such as coal, oil and gas are effectively finite because it takes millions of years to make more of them.
Fission
Fission is when a large atom splits into two smaller atoms. Lots of energy is released. When uranium atoms are split in a nuclear power station, the energy released is used to generate electricity. But fission is also used in nuclear bombs, which can destroy a whole city.
Fossil fuel
Fossil fuels are energy supplies made millions of years ago from plants and animals. Coal, oil and gas are fossil fuels. They are the world's most commonly used energy source. But fossil fuels are finite, non-renewable sources of energy and burning them produces carbon dioxide.
Fuel
A fuel is anything that can be burned to release heat and light. Fuels include coal, gas, oil and wood. Fuels are burned in homes for warmth, light and cooking, burned in cars to make them go, and burned in power stations to make electricity.
Fuel cell
A fuel cell combines hydrogen and oxygen to make electricity and water.
Fusion
Fusion is when two small atoms collide and stick together. Lots of energy is released. Fusion happens in stars, which is why they glow. Scientists are trying to make nuclear fusion happen on Earth, and use the energy released to generate electricity.
Fusion reactor
A fusion reactor is a machine which can make smaller atoms stick together to make bigger atoms. When this happens, lots of energy is released. Scientists are trying to build fusion reactors so the energy released can be used to generate electricity.
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