APES Unit 6: Introduction to Energy Resources and Consumption

Flashcards covering key vocabulary terms and definitions related to energy resources and consumption.

Renewable Energy Resources

Energy resources that are replenished naturally at a rate equal to or greater than the rate of consumption.

Nonrenewable Energy Resources

Energy resources that exist in a fixed amount on Earth or are replenished at an insignificant rate.

Renewable Energy Resources

Energy resources that are replenished naturally at a rate equal to or greater than the rate of consumption.

Nonrenewable Energy Resources

Energy resources that exist in a fixed amount on Earth or are replenished at an insignificant rate.

Watt (W)

A unit of power used as a measure of the rate of energy transfer, particularly for electricity.

Kilowatt hour (kWh)

A measurement of energy equivalent to one kilowatt of power used for one hour.

Joule (J)

The unit of work, specifically used here as a measurement of useful work performed by machines and electronics.

British Thermal Unit (BTU)

A unit of thermal energy used for measuring heat.

Total Cost of Goods (Full Cost)

The cost that includes all environmental effects of a product, including external costs.

Biofuels

Liquid or gas fuels refined from biomass, such as cooking oils, crops, and algae.

Carbon Neutral

A condition where the net carbon dioxide emissions from burning biofuels are balanced by the amount of CO2 absorbed during the growth of the biomass.

Geothermal Energy

Energy derived from the heat within the Earth’s crust, used for electricity or heat production.

Hydroelectric Power

Electricity generated by using the power of flowing water to turn a turbine connected to a generator.

Waste Incineration

The burning of combustible materials to produce electricity, often seen as a transitional energy resource.

Wind Energy

Energy harnessed from the kinetic energy of wind to generate electricity through turbines.

Fossil Fuels

Natural substances formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals, primarily used for energy production.

Nuclear Power

Energy produced from nuclear reactions, typically through the fission of uranium.

Energy Conservation

The practice of using energy more efficiently to reduce energy consumption and waste.

Energy Storage

Techniques used to save excess energy for later use, especially important for renewable energy sources.

Active Solar

Technology that actively collects and converts solar energy into usable heat or electricity.

Passive Solar Design

Building design that maximizes solar gain and minimizes heat loss without mechanical systems.

Environmental Impact

Effects that an energy resource has on the natural environment, including pollution and habitat disturbance.

Biomass

Organic material used as a renewable energy source, including plant material and animal waste.