Energy and Thermodynamic Considerations Involving Electromagnetic Zero-Point Radiation

There has been recent speculation and controversy regarding whether electromagnetic zero-point radiation might be the next candidate in the progression of plentiful energy sources, ranging, for example, from hydrodynamic, chemical, and nuclear energy sources. Certainly, however, extracting energy from the vacuum seems counter intuitive to most people. Here, these ideas are clarified, drawing on simple and common examples. Known properties of electromagnetic zeropoint energy are qualitatively discussed. An outlook on the success of utilizing this energy source is then discussed.