Module 8 Energy Sources

Fossil Fuels

fuels formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals that were buried and altered over millions of years

Petroleum

a flammable liquid formed from the decay of ancient organisms

Nonrenewable Resources

Resources that cannot be replaced by natural processes as quickly as they are used

Fusion

when atomic nuclei combine at very high temperatures

Fission

the process where the nucleus of an atom splits apart and energy is released

Nuclear reactor

a device used to generate electricity through controlled nuclear reactions

Nuclear Waste

any radioactive material that results when radioactive materials are used

renewable resource

an energy source that is replaced by natural processes faster than humans can consume the resource

photovolatic cells

device used to convert radiant energy directly into electrical energy

hydroelectricity

electric current produced from the energy of moving water

geothermal energy

thermal energy that is contained in and around magma

biomass

renewable organic matter

population

all the individuals of one species living in a particular area

carrying capacity

the greatest number of individuals of a particular species that the environment can support

Pollutants

any substance that contaminates the environment

hazardous waste

substances that are harmful to humans and animals

photochemical smog

pollution that results from the reaction between sunlight and vehicle or factory exhaust

acid precipitation

when acidic moisture falls from the sky as precipitation