Which of the following correctly ranks forms of energy from highest quality to lowest quality?

The correct ranking of energy forms from highest quality to lowest quality is based on their ability to do work and the efficiency with which they can be converted into other forms of energy. High-quality energy is typically more useful for performing work, while low-quality energy is less efficient and often more dispersed.

In this context, electrical energy is considered the highest quality due to its versatility and efficiency in being converted to do work. Mechanical energy also ranks high for similar reasons, as it can be directly harnessed to perform work.

Steam at 300 degrees C is ranked higher than steam at 100 degrees C because it possesses a higher thermal energy content, enabling it to perform work more effectively. The increased temperature correlates with increased kinetic energy of the steam molecules, which can contribute to higher efficiency in energy conversion.

Therefore, the ranking provided in the correct answer places mechanical and electrical energy at the top, followed by steam at 300 degrees C, and then steam at 100 degrees C, while recognizing their roles in energy conversion efficiency. This order reflects an understanding of the qualitative differences between these energy forms in terms of their utility and potential to do work, making the ranking in the answer accurate.