Energy resources unit review practice
1. Define renewable energy resources and give examples.
Renewable energy resources are natural resources that can be replenished or regenerated naturally. Examples include solar energy, wind energy, hydroelectric power, biomass, and geothermal energy.
2. Define non-renewable energy resources and give examples.
Non-renewable energy resources are finite resources that cannot be replenished once they are depleted. Examples include fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas.
3. What is the advantage of using renewable energy resources?
The advantage of using renewable energy resources is that they are sustainable and have a lower impact on the environment compared to non-renewable resources. They also reduce greenhouse gas emissions and decrease dependence on fossil fuels.
4. What is the disadvantage of using non-renewable energy resources?
The disadvantage of using non-renewable energy resources is that they contribute to air pollution, contribute to climate change, and will eventually run out. They are also usually more expensive to extract and use.
5. Explain how solar energy is converted into usable electricity.
Solar energy is converted into usable electricity through the use of photovoltaic (PV) cells. These cells are made of semiconductor materials, usually silicon, that absorb photons from sunlight. When the photons strike the cells, they knock electrons loose from their atoms, allowing them to flow through the material as an electric current. This current can then be captured and used to power electrical devices.
6. Explain how wind energy is converted into usable electricity.
Wind energy is converted into usable electricity through the use of wind turbines. These turbines have large blades that are turned by the force of the wind. As the blades turn, they spin a generator that converts the kinetic energy of the wind into electrical energy. This electricity can then be transmitted and used to power homes and businesses.
7. Explain how hydroelectric power is generated.
Hydroelectric power is generated by harnessing the energy of flowing or falling water. Large dams are constructed to create reservoirs of water at a higher elevation. When the water is released, it flows through turbines, causing them to rotate. The rotation of the turbines drives generators, which convert the mechanical energy of the moving water into electrical energy. This electrical energy can then be distributed and used as electricity.
8. Explain how biomass energy is produced.
Biomass energy is produced by burning organic materials such as wood, crops, and agricultural waste. This combustion process releases heat, which can be harnessed to produce steam. The steam then drives a turbine connected to a generator, producing electricity. Biomass energy can also be converted into biofuels such as ethanol and biodiesel for transportation purposes.
9. Explain how geothermal energy is harnessed.
Geothermal energy is harnessed by tapping into the natural heat of the Earth. Wells are drilled into geothermal reservoirs, where hot water and steam are trapped. When this hot water and steam are brought to the surface, the steam is used to drive a turbine connected to a generator, producing electricity. The hot water can also be used directly for heating purposes.
10. List two advantages and two disadvantages of nuclear energy.
Advantages of nuclear energy include its high energy density, which means it requires a small amount of fuel to generate a large amount of electricity, and its low greenhouse gas emissions. Disadvantages include the risk of nuclear meltdowns and radioactive waste, which must be carefully managed and stored.