P2.2.6 - Energy resources

Question 1

What is meant by an energy resource?

Answer 1

A resource than can be used to generate electricity.

Question 2

Name the 3 main fossil fuels.

Answer 2

Coal
Oil
Gas

Question 3

What is a fossil fuel?

Answer 3

A fuel that has been formed by fossilised remains of plants or animals.

Question 4

What is coal formed from?

Answer 4

The fossilised remains of TREES that have been compressed and heated in the ground over millions of years.

Question 5

What are oil and gas formed from?

Answer 5

The fossilised remains of ANIMALS that have been compressed and heated in the ground over millions of years.

Question 6

What is a thermal power station?

Answer 6

A power station that produces electricity by burning coal and gas.

Question 7

What is oil used for?

Answer 7

Petrol and plastics

Question 8

Explain the steps involved in generating electricity in a power station.

Answer 8

1. A fuel burns to turn water into steam.
2. The steam drives turbine (a big fan)
3. The turbine drives a generator.
4. The generator provides electricity.

Question 9

What are the problems associated with burning fossil fuels?

Answer 9

1. They produce a lot of carbon dioxide.
2. Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas.
3. Greenhouse gases cause global warming.

Question 10

What does global warming lead to?

Answer 10

1. Droughts
2. Polar ice caps melting
3. Rising sea levels
4. Climate change
5. Sea temperature increases.

Question 11

What is meant by a renewable energy resource?

Answer 11

An energy resource that will not run out.

Question 12

List examples of renewable energy sources:

Answer 12

1. Wind turbines
2. Solar energy
3. Tidal energy
4. Hydroelectric
5. Geothermal
6. Biomass