Energy Unit Flashcards
Problems with using fossil fuels? Why is it still the most common source of energy?
Fossil fuels are finite, not infinite. They are also unfriendly to the environment (pollution). They help
power many things used in everyday life: transportation, cooking appliances, etc.
How is the value of fuel determined?
Cost, availability, global politics, safety, energy content, by products of the fuel’s use
How does a power plant work? List the steps. This is for a generic coal, natural goals, or biofuel power plant.
Burn fuel; boil water; makes steam; steam turns turbine; turbine turns generator; generator makes electricity
What is the purpose of building a dam? What are the pros and cons?
The purpose of building a dam is to store water for different purposes. Pros: flood control, water supply storage, recreational activities. Cons: possibility of dam failure, decaying plant matter
What is the difference between a renewable and a nonrenewable resource?
A renewable source that is not finite, and can be regenerated. A nonrenewable resource is finite, and can’t be regenerated.
What are some easy ways to save energy at school or at home?
Home:turn off lights, use daylight; keep appliances maintained; weatherize your home
School: Use both sides of a piece of paper; unplug when finish; limit electronic use
What are the various types of mining? Give examples of each type.
Subsurface mining:room and pillar mining; longwall mining; solution mining
Surface Mining:strip mining; quarrying; solar evaporation
Undersea mining
What are the pros and cons of surface mining?
Surface Mining Pros: workers are safer above ground; easier access to ore/ Cons: alters the landscape; greater potential for contaminating the environment;
What are the pros and cons of subsurface mining?
Subsurface Mining Pros: easier to contain harmful wastes; doesn’t necessarily affect the landscape/ Cons: miners can get trapped underground; underground fires and explosions can occur
What are possible problems caused by mining?
Mining can cause pollution (air and water), as well as water contamination. Can displace wildlife, and cause erosion and
sedimentation. Creates e-waste, which if burned, releases strong acids that are dangerous to human health and the environment.
Explain the concept and importance of reclamation.
Reclamation is the process of returning land that was mined to its original or to a better state than before.
Reclamation can be hard and expensive, but if done correctly, returning the area to its natural state can help the land recover, and be sustained for longer.
