Energy Generation

Question 1

What are fossil fuels? And how can they be used to generate energy?

Answer 1

Fossil fuels are formed from the fossilised remains of plants and animals over millions of years

Fossil fuels can be burned to superheat water under pressure, which in turn, drives turbines - creating energy

Question 2

What is fracking?

Answer 2

Fracking involves drilling into layers of shale rock deep in the earth to release pockets of gas

Question 3

List some renewable energy sources

Answer 3

• Wind
• Solar
• Tidal
• Biomass
• Hydroelectric

Question 4

Advantages and disadvantages of wind turbines

Answer 4

Advantages:
Low maintenance
Clean energy
Higher winter output
Low cost energy

Disadvantages:
Only work when windy
Eyesore to some
Hazard to birds
Noise

Question 5

What are the advantages and disadvantages of solar energy?

Answer 5

Advantages:
Low maintenance
Clean energy
Relatively low-cost

Disadvantages:
Seasonal fluctuations
No power generated at night
Complex positioning issues

Question 6

What is tidal energy?

Answer 6

The rise and fall of the tide forces water through turbines which drive generators to produce electricity

Question 7

What is hydroelectric power (HEP)?

Answer 7

Hydroelectric power is a very reliable and controllable energy source
• The set-up costs are financially and environmentally expensive
• Vast areas need to be flooded to create reservoirs
- Destroys wildlife habitats

Question 8

What is biofuel and biomass?

Answer 8

Biofuel and biomass are created from organic matter which is burned to generate power

Biomass fuels include food and farm waste, compost and wood chips or compressed pellets

Question 9

What is nuclear power?

Answer 9

Nuclear power accounts for over 11% of the world’s electricity

Nuclear power provides an abundant, reliable supply of clean energy

Although if an accident happens it could be devistating