What is Fracking

Question 1

Fracking definition

Answer 1

The process of injecting liquid at high pressure into subterranean rocks + boreholes so as to force open existing fissures and extract oil or gas

Question 2

How can Fracking cause water contamination

Answer 2

Spillages at base level pads or leaking pipes travelling through the aquifer

Question 3

3 positives on environment vs. alternatives?

Answer 3

Power plants using gas generate 60% less carbon, sulphur dioxide and ash than coal
Same tremor risk as coal mining
Less water use than nuclear than coal

Question 4

3 negatives on environment vs. alternatives?

Answer 4

Could delay switch to renewables for another 50years while Government official advisors say power sector must be decarbonised by 2030 to reach climate goals
4.5% rate of leakages negates all carbon gains
4million gallons of water per borehole

Question 5

(5) Outline the process of hydraulic fracturing used to access shale gas

Answer 5

Used to access unconventional shale gas deposits trapped inside pores in impermeable shale rock deep beneath the surface
A vertical drilling up to 3,000m deep
Horizontal wells drilled into deposits
High pressure fluid mix of water sand and chemicals fractures rock and keeps wells clean and fast flowing
The fluid is pumped back to the surface where gas is separated and used for energy