Chapter 18: Renewable Energy Flashcards
What is renewable energy?
Renewable energy is energy from sources that are constantly being formed. A renewable resource can replenish itself at the rate it is used, while a nonrenewable resource has a limited supply.
What is solar power?
Solar power harnesses the sun’s energy to generate electricity through the use of solar panels. These panels contain photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into electricity, providing a clean and sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.
How is solar energy collected on homes?
It is collected using solar panels installed on rooftops. These panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity through photovoltaic cells. The generated electricity can be used to power homes, reducing reliance on traditional energy sources and lowering electricity bills.
What is wind power?
Wind power involves harnessing the wind’s kinetic energy through wind turbines. These turbines have blades that spin when the wind blows, converting the motion into electricity. Wind power is a clean and sustainable energy source that helps reduce carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.
What is hydropower?
Hydropower uses the energy of moving water, typically from rivers or dams, to generate electricity. By directing water flow through turbines, hydropower plants convert the water’s kinetic energy into electrical power. Hydropower is a reliable and renewable energy source that plays a significant role in clean energy production.
What are examples of hydroelectric power?
Examples of hydroelectric power are large-scale facilities like the Hoover Dam in the United States, the Three Gorges Dam in China, and the Itaipu Dam on the border of Brazil and Paraguay. There are also smaller-scale hydroelectric projects, such as run-of-river hydroelectric plants and micro-hydro systems, which harness the power of flowing water on a smaller scale for local energy needs.
What is the area behind a dam called?
The area behind a dam is called a reservoir. It’s like a giant water storage created by the dam to hold water before it passes through the turbines to generate hydropower.
What is geothermal energy?
Geothermal energy harnesses the heat stored beneath the Earth’s surface to generate electricity. This heat can come from hot water reservoirs, steam, or even rocks deep underground. Geothermal power plants use this heat to produce clean and sustainable energy.
What is biomass energy?
Biomass energy utilizes organic materials like wood, crop residues, and even animal waste to produce energy. By burning these materials or converting them into biofuels, biomass energy can generate heat and electricity in a sustainable way. It’s a renewable energy source that helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
What are disadvantages of using biomass energy?
When we burn it for energy, it still releases CO2 and other pollutants, which isn’t great for the air we breathe. Producing biomass can compete with food and natural habitats, leading to deforestation and biodiversity loss. It also needs a lot of resources like water and fertilizer, and sometimes the process isn’t very efficient.
What does a hybrid car use to run? (Hint: It comes from two power sources in the car)
Hybrid cars use a combination of gasoline and electricity to run. The gasoline engine powers the car and charges the electric battery, which in turn assists the gasoline engine during acceleration and helps improve fuel efficiency.
