Chapter 17: Non-renewable Energy Flashcards
What is a non-renewable resource?
Non-renewable resources are substances that cannot be replaced or regenerated within a human lifetime. Once these resources are depleted, they are gone forever, highlighting the importance of conservation and sustainable use.
The United States generates most of its energy from what energy source?
The United States generates most of its energy from fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas.
What is a fossil fuel?
Fossil fuel is a nonrenewable energy source formed from the remains of organisms that lived long ago. We use fossil fuels to run vehicles, factories and to produce electricity.
What are 2 major problems with fossil fuels?
The supply of fossil fuels is limited. Obtaining and using them has environmental consequences.
What is oil & natural gas made from?
Decay of marine life that accumulated bottom of the ocean millions of years ago.
What are the environmental effects of using oil?
Oil can be really bad for the environment. When it spills, it can mess up oceans and land, hurting animals and plants. Burning oil also makes the air dirty, which can be bad for our health and the climate. It can mess up water and habitats, making it harder for animals to survive.
What is nuclear energy?
Nuclear energy is the energy released by a fission or fusion reaction. It represents the binding energy of the atomic nucleus. Nuclear power comes from nuclear fission. In nuclear power plants, atoms of the element uranium are used as the fuel.
What is nuclear fission?
Nuclear fusion is the combination of the nuclei of small atoms to form a larger nucleus. Fusion releases tremendous amounts of energy. It is potentially a safer energy source than nuclear fission is because it creates less dangerous radioactive byproducts.
What element is used in the process of nuclear fission?
The element commonly used in the process of nuclear fission is uranium-235.
Where can storage sites be located for nuclear waste?
Storage sites for nuclear waste must be carefully chosen. These sites are typically located in underground repositories, deep within stable rock formations, to ensure the safe containment of radioactive materials for thousands of years. These repositories are designed to prevent any leakage or contamination of the surrounding environment.
