Your Flashcards are Ready!
15 Flashcards in this deck.
Topic 2/3
15 Flashcards in this deck.
Renewable energy resources are those that can be replenished naturally in a short period of time. They are essential for sustainable development as they provide a continuous supply of energy without depleting natural resources. The primary types of renewable energy include:
Non-renewable energy resources are finite and cannot be replenished within a human timeframe. They include fossil fuels and nuclear energy:
Sustainability in energy resources focuses on meeting current energy needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. It involves balancing economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity. Key aspects include:
Energy resource utilization significantly impacts the environment and society. Understanding these impacts is essential for making informed decisions:
Advancements in technology are essential for enhancing the efficiency and viability of energy resources:
Improving energy efficiency and promoting conservation are vital strategies for sustainability:
Global energy trends reflect the evolving landscape of energy production and consumption:
Energy Resource | Definition | Applications | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|---|
Solar Energy | Energy harnessed from sunlight using photovoltaic cells or solar thermal systems. | Electricity generation, heating, powering devices. | Renewable, abundant, low emissions. | Intermittent availability, high initial costs. |
Wind Energy | Energy generated by converting wind currents into electricity using turbines. | Electricity generation, powering remote areas. | Clean, renewable, scalable. | Dependent on wind availability, noise concerns. |
Coal | A solid fossil fuel used primarily for electricity generation and industrial processes. | Electricity production, steel manufacturing. | High energy density, established infrastructure. | High CO2 emissions, environmental pollution. |
Natural Gas | A gaseous fossil fuel used for heating, electricity generation, and as an industrial feedstock. | Heating, electricity generation, industrial processes. | Lower CO2 emissions than coal, versatile. | Still emits greenhouse gases, methane leaks. |
Hydropower | Energy produced by capturing energy from flowing water in rivers or dams. | Electricity generation, water supply management. | Renewable, reliable, low emissions. | Environmental impact on aquatic ecosystems, relocation of communities. |
1. Mnemonic for Energy Types: Remember "SWBGH" for Solar, Wind, Biomass, Geothermal, and Hydropower to categorize renewable resources.
2. Compare and Contrast: Create tables to compare renewable and non-renewable resources, focusing on definitions, applications, pros, and cons.
3. Stay Updated: Keep abreast of the latest technological advancements in energy resources to understand their evolving impacts and benefits.
4. Practice Calculations: Regularly practice energy-related calculations, such as energy output and efficiency formulas, to strengthen your numerical skills for exams.
1. Solar Power Empires: The largest solar power plant in the world, the Bhadla Solar Park in India, spans over 14,000 acres and generates around 2,245 MW of power.
2. Wind Energy Potential: Offshore wind farms have the potential to generate more energy than all existing offshore oil and gas fields combined.
3. Geothermal Depths: The deepest geothermal power plant operates at a depth of over 4 kilometers underground, tapping into the Earth’s immense heat.
1. Confusing Renewable with Non-Renewable: Students often mistakenly classify nuclear energy as renewable.
Incorrect: Nuclear energy is renewable.
Correct: Nuclear energy is non-renewable as it relies on finite uranium resources.
2. Overlooking Energy Storage Needs: Assuming that all renewable energy sources provide constant energy without storage solutions.
Incorrect: Renewable energy like solar and wind always provide a steady energy supply.
Correct: Renewable energy can be intermittent and often requires storage solutions like batteries to ensure a stable supply.
3. Ignoring Environmental Impacts: Believing that all renewable energy sources are completely environmentally friendly.
Incorrect: Wind farms have no environmental impact.
Correct: Wind farms can affect bird populations and require careful site selection to minimize ecological disruption.