Energy Production and Use (FOUN1201)

Flashcards for reviewing key concepts related to energy production, usage, and conservation.

What is energy?

Energy is the ability to do work.

How do we measure energy and work?

Energy and work are measured using the unit Joule.

What is the formula for work?

Work = mass × gravity × height (W = m × g × h).

What is the relationship between Joules and nutritional calories?

1 Joule is about 0.239 calories.

What is power?

Power is the rate at which work is done, measured in Watts.

What is the formula to calculate power?

Power = Work / Time.

How is efficiency defined?

Efficiency is the ratio of useful energy output to total energy input.

What are the two main types of energy?

Kinetic energy (energy in motion) and potential energy (energy based on position).

What are the main forms of energy?

Mechanical, thermal, chemical, nuclear, and sound.

What does the Law of Conservation of Energy state?

Energy can neither be created nor destroyed, only converted from one form to another.

What is a typical efficiency range for internal combustion engines?

25-30% efficiency.

What are fossil fuels?

Combustible products formed from the decay of organic matter.

What are the three main categories of fossil fuels?

Crude oil, coal, and natural gas.

What is the refining process of crude oil?

Crude oil is heated and passed into a fractionating column to separate constituents based on boiling point.

How is energy produced from coal?

Energy is obtained by burning coal, which primarily produces carbon dioxide and heat.

What is biogas?

Gas produced by the biological breakdown of organic matter in the absence of oxygen.

What types of renewable energy are discussed?

Solar power, hydropower, wind power, and biogas.

What is solar photovoltaic energy?

Energy converted from sunlight into electricity using semiconductor materials.

What is net metering?

An arrangement where residential suppliers can sell electricity back to the grid at favorable rates.

What is hydropower?

Energy obtained from flowing water, which can be produced via impoundment or diversion.

What is the primary source of energy for Jamaica?

Natural gas is the primary source.

What does energy conservation mean?

Reducing the amount of energy consumed through various measures.

What examples of energy conservation methods are provided?

Using energy-efficient devices, turning off unnecessary appliances, and utilizing natural ventilation.

What is the difference between kilowatt-hour (kWh) and kilowatt (kW)?

kWh measures energy used over time, while kW is a measure of power at an instant.

What are some environmental impacts of fossil fuel usage?

Pollution resulting in acid rain, smog, and contribution to climate change.

What is clean coal technology?

Techniques such as carbon capture and storage that aim to reduce emissions from coal burning.

What role do wind turbines play in energy production?

They convert kinetic energy from wind into electrical energy.

What is a typical efficiency range for solar panels?

Typically around 15% efficient.

What are the challenges associated with nuclear energy?

High construction costs and risks of contamination in the event of a disaster.

What is Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC)?

A method that exploits temperature differences in ocean water to generate energy.

How do fuel cells work?

They produce electricity by converting fuel like hydrogen gas into energy.

What is the significance of electric vehicles?

They present a potential solution to reduce reliance on fossil fuels in transportation.

What does a sustainable energy system require?

A combination of energy conservation, renewable sources, and efficient technology.

How does the use of biomass contribute to energy production?

Biomass can be converted into biogas through anaerobic digestion.

What factors contribute to the efficiency of wind turbines?

Wind speed, turbine design, and location can all impact efficiency.

Why is energy storage important for renewable energy systems?

It provides stability for the grid due to the variable nature of renewable energy sources.

What are some advantages of solar energy?

It's a renewable source that can reduce electricity bills and can be set up for local use.

How can conservation impact energy sources?

It reduces the consumption of existing energy sources, making it cheaper to implement clean energy solutions.

What is the principle behind the greenhouse effect?

Certain gases trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to global warming.

What are the key reasons for reducing dependency on fossil fuels?

High costs, supply restrictions, and environmental impacts.

Why is Jamaica focusing on electric mobility?

To transition to cleaner energy solutions and reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels.

How can individuals promote energy conservation?

By using energy-saving devices and lobbying for supportive policies.

What are some renewable energy projects in Jamaica?

Content Solar, Paradise Park, and small hydropower plants.

How does natural gas extraction impact Jamaica's economy?

It's a key driver for economic activity and foreign investment.

What is a significant barrier to implementing renewable energy?

High capital costs and the need for dependable energy storage.

What are some technological advancements in energy generation?

Use of higher efficiency wind turbines and solar panels.

How can individuals and businesses become more energy efficient?

Invest in energy efficient devices and implement measures to reduce waste.