7. How Does Physical Geography Affect Energy Supply Flashcards
How does geology influence a country’s energy mix?
Geology determines access to fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas; shale formations allow for fracking, and sedimentary rocks hold hydrocarbon reserves.
What is hydraulic fracking and how does it work?
Fracking involves drilling into shale rock and injecting high-pressure water to fracture it, releasing trapped oil and gas.
What are oil and tar sands, and how efficient are they?
Bituminous sands that contain heavy oil. Around 4 tonnes of sand produce 1 barrel of oil — only 10% recovery.
How is coal formed geologically?
Coal forms from plant material in swampy areas under heat and pressure over millions of years, becoming peat, then lignite, bituminous, or anthracite.
Why are some types of coal preferred for energy?
Higher carbon content means higher energy yield. Steam power stations use bituminous (70–86%) and anthracite (86–98%) coal.
What geological conditions are required for oil and gas formation?
Organic material settles in seabeds, forms kerogen in shale rock; heat turns it into oil/gas, which is trapped by impermeable cap rock.
Why is climate important for wind energy?
Wind speed must exceed 5.5 m/s. High, consistent winds optimize energy; too strong winds (50–80 mph) can shut turbines down.
Why does the UK have strong wind energy potential?
Due to its location on the Atlantic edge with strong south-westerly prevailing winds and long fetch.
What affects solar energy potential in different climates?
Sunlight levels, cloud cover, snow, rainfall, and strong wind can reduce solar panel efficiency or damage them.
Why are tropical regions ideal for solar power?
They receive high, consistent solar radiation due to the sun’s angle and longer daylight hours.
What drainage features favor Hydroelectric Power (HEP) development?
Large river flow (volume) and high head (height water falls). Steep valleys and changes in gradient improve efficiency.
How does topography influence the success of HEP?
Steep, narrow valleys provide the height and water velocity needed for effective hydroelectric power generation.
How does human geography influence a country’s energy mix?
Factors include political energy policies, quality of life goals, attitudes toward climate change, and conservation ideas.
Why is political commitment important in shaping energy use?
Governments may support renewable or fossil fuel industries, shaping infrastructure, subsidies, and public attitudes.
