P4: Energy Resources Flashcards
What is meant by an energy resource?
A resource than can be used to generate electricity.
Name the 3 main fossil fuels.
Coal
Oil
Natural Gas
What is a fossil fuel?
A fuel that has been formed by fossilised remains of plants or animals.
What is coal formed from?
The fossilised remains of TREES that have been compressed and heated in the ground over millions of years.
What are oil and gas formed from?
The fossilised remains of ANIMALS that have been compressed and heated in the ground over millions of years.
Briefly describe how a coal fired power station generates electricity
- Burning coal heats water
- The steam produced turns a turbine
- The turbine is attached to a generator which generates electricity
What are the problems associated with burning fossil fuels?
They produce a lot of carbon dioxide.
Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas.
Greenhouse gases cause global warming.
What is meant by a renewable energy resource?
An energy resource that will not run out.
List examples of renewable energy sources:
- Wind turbines
- Solar energy
- Tidal energy
- Hydroelectric
- Geothermal
- Biomass
List the advantages and disadvantages of renewable energy resources.
Advantages
- Won’t run out
- Less atmospheric pollution
- Minimal running costs
Disadvantages
- Provide less energy
- Unreliable e.g. not always windy
- Damage environment e.g. wind turbines
- High start up costs