Comparison of Fossil Fuels to Biofuels

Flashcards comparing fossil fuels and biofuels based on provided lecture notes.

What are biofuels?

Fuels produced from renewable organic material.

What are some undesirable aspects of fossil fuel production that biofuels could potentially reduce?

Greenhouse gas emissions, resource depletion, and dependence on foreign suppliers.

What are some potential drawbacks of biofuel production?

Land use changes, water resource pressure, air/water pollution, and increased food costs.

What is a fossil fuel?

A fuel formed from the anaerobic decomposition of dead organisms over millions of years.

Give some examples of fossil fuels.

Methane, petroleum, and anthracite coal.

What is a significant environmental concern associated with fossil fuels?

The production of CO2, a major contributor to global warming and climate change.

What are some effects of increased CO2 production from fossil fuels?

Increases in atmospheric CO2, global temperatures, and CO2 in water bodies.

What is biomass?

Material derived from living organisms (animal or plant).

How is bioethanol produced?

Fermentation of plant materials (wheat, barley, sugarcane).

How is biodiesel made?

Vegetable oils or animal fats reacting with alcohol.

Why are biofuels considered renewable?

They can be replenished as quickly as they are consumed, are biodegradable, and can pose less of an environmental threat when spilled.

Why are biofuels considered 'carbon neutral'?

CO2 absorbed by the plants during photosynthesis offsets the CO2 produced during production and consumption.

What are some disadvantages of biofuels?

Lower energy efficiency, potential food shortages due to crops being used for fuel, and degradation of vehicle parts with high ethanol use.