Phantom Loads of Energy

2514 Words6 Pages

Energy is used uselessly when an electronic device is plugged in. This energy that is used is called the phantom load, or standby power. Excessive human activity such as aimless use of electricity like this, as well as unabashed use of other natural resources and various products that deplete the ozone layer is affecting the earth, and ruining the environment. A few simple steps involving the learning theory that can be used to help stop this a public service announcement, using observable learning, reinforcement, by saving money, and praise, and generalization, by associating smaller appliances with any electronic that can be turned off. The long term benefit of learning to unplug electronics that are not in use is curbed usage of resources, as well as a longer sustainability rate of the Earth.

I: Conservation of Energy: Phantom Loads and the Environment

Of the many kinds of ecologically friendly practices known to mankind, the easiest, but least practiced is the habit that can save the most. Electricity is a nonrenewable resource that is used on a daily basis, and used globally. Electricity comes from a variety of resources, everything from wood, to water, to wind. Electrical energy that is distributed to households is often used and abused, and then wasted. Since electricity powers everything known to man, it is used widely, and thus allows for waste. This waste can be easily avoided, and by doing so, can save many different aspects of raw resources, such as water, wood, and oil.

The typical American household is filled with a plethora of electronics ranging from entertainment systems, to computers, to refrigerators. Houses are filled with small appliances and other personal care items that are not used on a daily basis, b...

... middle of paper ...

... a grand challenge of society. American Psychologist, 64(5), 339- 356. doi:10.1037/a0015685.

Killeen, P., Sanabria, F., & Dolgov, I. (2009). The dynamics of conditioning and extinction. Journal of Experimental Psychology: Animal Behavior Processes, 35(4), 447-472. doi:10.1037/a0015626.

Langmeyer, L. (1984). A social psychological perspective on energy conservation in residential buildings. American Psychologist, 39(7), 810-811. doi:10.1037/0003-066X.39.7.810.

Livesey, E., & McLaren, I. (2009). Discrimination and generalization along a simple dimension: Peak shift and rule-governed responding. Journal of Experimental Psychology: Animal Behavior Processes, 35(4), 554-565. doi:10.1037/a0015524.

Skinner, D. (2007). Review of "Learning and behavior: A contemporary synthesis". Canadian Psychology/Psychologie canadienne, 48(4), 281-282. doi:10.1037/cp.48.4.281.

Open Document