Energy Resources Flashcards
List all the renewable resources
Biofuels
Geothermal
Hydroelectric
Solar
Tides
Waves
Wind
List all the non-renewable resources
Fossil Fuels
Nuclear
Pick 3 types of energy and explain them, their reliability and their environmental impact
Biofuels
Energy Source: Biofuels are made from crops and can replace fossil fuels.
Reliability: Biofuels are somewhat reliable because crops can be grown to meet demand, but weather (like droughts or floods) can affect growth. Large land areas are needed, which can cause challenges.
Environmental Impact: Growing biofuels can lead to deforestation and habitat destruction. While they reduce reliance on fossil fuels, land-use changes and farming practices can also harm the environment.
Geothermal
Energy Source: Geothermal energy is generated by pumping water onto hot rocks beneath the Earth’s surface to produce steam, which powers turbines to make electricity.
Reliability: Geothermal energy is highly reliable and predictable, as it is not affected by weather. Energy production is steady as long as geothermal sources are available.
Environmental Impact: Geothermal energy can release greenhouse gases from the Earth’s crust. Building power stations can disrupt local habitats, but it is still a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels.
Wind Energy
Energy Source: Wind energy is captured by turbines that turn wind into electricity.
Reliability: Wind energy can be unreliable because it depends on the wind. Turbines don’t work when there’s little wind.
Environmental Impact: Wind energy has no emissions, but turbines can disturb local habitats and communities. Wind farms also need a lot of space, which can affect ecosystems.