Natural Resources

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to natural resources, energy production, and sustainability as discussed in the lecture.

Natural Resources

Materials or substances from the Earth used to support human life, such as oils, fossil fuels, minerals, and freshwater.

Renewable Resources

Resources which are replaced naturally at the same rate as they are consumed.

Non-Renewable Resources

Resources that cannot be readily replaced by natural means at a level equal to their consumption.

Fossil Fuels

Non-renewable energy sources like oil, natural gas, and coal, formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals.

Soil Degradation

The decline in soil quality caused by improper use or poor management.

Liquified Natural Gas (LNG)

Natural gas that has been cooled to liquid form for ease of storage and transportation.

Freshwater as a Resource

Although technically renewable, freshwater is often limited and sensitive to pollution and climate change.

Hydroelectric Power

Electricity generated by using the energy of flowing water.

Geothermal Energy

Energy harnessed from the heat stored beneath the Earth's surface.

Biomass

Biological material from living or once-living organisms used as fuel.

Wind Power

Energy generated by harnessing the wind to produce electricity.

Solar Energy

Energy from the sun converted into thermal or electrical energy.

Nuclear Power

Energy produced by nuclear reactions; generates significant waste products.

Pollution

The introduction of harmful substances into the environment, affecting air, water, and soil quality.

Global Warming

The long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities.

Energy Efficiency

The use of less energy to provide the same service or output.

Precipitation Patterns

The distribution of various forms of precipitation, which can be altered by climate change.

Sustainability

Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Environmental Conservation

The practice of protecting the natural environment to prevent exploitation and degradation.

Land Degradation

The reduction of the land's ability to provide ecosystem services due to human activities.

Energy Consumption

The amount of energy used by individuals, industries, and governments in various forms.