Energy - Chapter 5 CT-1

Fossil Fuels

Energy sources such as oil, gas, and coal that generate 90% of electricity in the UK; they are non-renewable and cannot be replaced for thousands of years.

Greenhouse Effect

The warming of the Earth caused by carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases that trap heat in the atmosphere.

Global Warming

The increase in average global temperatures due to rising levels of greenhouse gases from burning fossil fuels and other sources.

Coastal Flooding

The inundation of low-lying coastal areas due to rising sea levels, affecting regions like East Anglia, the Netherlands, and Bangladesh.

Nuclear Power

Energy produced from nuclear reactions, which currently supplies a significant portion of electricity in some countries, including France.

Chernobyl Disaster

The 1986 nuclear accident in Ukraine that released large amounts of radioactive material across Europe, with severe environmental and health impacts.

Renewable Energy

Energy generated from sources that are continuously replenished, such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power.

Biogas

Methane produced from the decomposition of organic matter without oxygen; can be used for heating and electricity.

Energy Conservation

Practices aimed at reducing energy consumption, such as using energy-efficient appliances and recycling.

Greenhouse Gases

Gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect by trapping heat in the atmosphere, including CO2, methane, and others.

Droughts

Prolonged periods of abnormally low rainfall, leading to water shortages and affected agriculture.

Seychelles

Coral islands in the Indian Ocean that could be submerged by a rise in sea level of only 45 cm, impacting their inhabitants.

Polders

Low-lying areas in the Netherlands that are below sea level, requiring extensive flood defenses.

Wind Energy

Energy generated by wind turbines; seen as a clean energy source but requires many turbines to produce significant electricity.

Sea Defenses

Structures built to protect coastal areas from flooding, including dykes, groynes, and barrages.

Methan, Gujarat

Location in India where a biogas plant operates, utilizing community cattle waste for methane production.