Energy Resources and Conversion Methods

Flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture notes on energy resources, extraction methods, and conversion processes.

In the universe, the 4 fundamental forces include __.

gravity, electromagnetism, strong nuclear force, and weak nuclear force.

The primary energy sources in nature include __.

fossil fuels, such as coal, natural gas, and oil.

Fossil fuel formation is considered a 'geological accident' involving __.

large quantities of organic matter cut off from oxygen and rearranged to concentrate energy.

The process of forming coal starts from __.

peat, which transforms through stages to lignite, sub-bituminous, bituminous, and anthracite.

Unconventional oil extraction techniques that allow oil to flow freely through rocks include __.

hydraulic fracturing (fracking) and horizontal drilling.

The two primary energy categories are and .

renewable (inexhaustible) and non-renewable (exhaustible) sources.

Wind energy relies on __ speeds for effective energy generation.

high and consistent wind speeds.

The __ effect refers to the generation of electrical power through sunlight.

photovoltaic effect.

Biofuels such as ethanol obtained from corn can provide energy because __.

they are more cost-effective than cutting down trees for biomass.

Geothermal energy primarily uses __ to produce electricity.

heat from the Earth's interior.

Nuclear energy accounts for approximately __ of energy consumption in the US.

8%.

The term __ refers to energy that is required to create food products such as beef, which is heavily subsidized.

grain.

The process of __ involves separating oil from water, often used in oil refining.

fractional distillation.

Autotrophs play a crucial role in energy conversion by __.

producing organic matter that can concentrate energy.

Coal formation is a result of __ and geological processes over time.

pressure and heat on layers of organic matter.

In energy consumption, a significant portion goes towards __ and electricity generation.

transport.