Wind Energy: An Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts related to wind energy, its benefits, challenges, and implications discussed in the lecture.

Coal was once considered __ energy source and now is seen as a fallback.

alternative

The main way the US has reduced its carbon footprint is by switching to __.

natural gas

Renewable energy sources include __ and solar.

wind

Since 2008, the proliferation of wind energy has been significant, especially in __ and the Midwest.

Texas

Iowa uses wind power for more than __% of its in-state electricity generation.

37

Wind power does not require __ for heating or cooling.

water

Wind turbines convert the energy from wind into __.

electricity

The efficiency of wind turbines can drop to __% during low winds.

10-40

Bats are highly affected by wind turbines due to their __ and curiosity.

echolocation

One way to reduce bird collisions with turbines is to paint the __ of the blades.

tips

Wind turbines are a __ energy source and provide economic benefits to rural areas.

non-depletable

The fastest declining group of mammals in North America is __.

bats

A major issue for bats caused by wind turbines is __.

barotrauma

To mitigate bat deaths, wind farms are installing __ sounds to deter them.

high-pitched

The term __ refers to mining practices that can create a significant ecological footprint.

mountaintop removal

Over one-third of the world’s rare earth elements are found in __.

China

The agreement between the US and Australia focuses on __ elements.

rare earth