Energy Conservation and Pollution Control

This set of flashcards covers key definitions, concepts, and significant information learned during the lecture on energy conservation and pollution control.

What is energy conservation?

Reducing energy use via behavior changes and efficiency improvements.

What is the rebound effect in energy efficiency?

Efficiency gains can lead to an overall increase in energy use.

What units measure energy consumption?

Common units include kWh, joules, and BTU.

What does EROI stand for?

Energy Returned on Investment, which is the ratio of energy returned to energy invested.

What are the major sources of global energy consumption?

Oil, coal, natural gas, nuclear, hydro, biomass, wind, and solar.

What is primary air pollution?

Pollution that is emitted directly into the atmosphere.

What is photochemical smog caused by?

The reaction of VOCs and NOx in the presence of sunlight, leading to ground-level ozone.

What happens during a thermal inversion?

A warm layer traps cooler air at the surface, worsening air quality.

What are the criteria pollutants?

PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NO2, CO, O3, and Pb.

What is a point source of pollution?

A single, identifiable source of pollution, such as a pipe or a factory.

What are common indoor air pollutants?

Radon, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, VOCs, asbestos, mold, and tobacco smoke.

What is acid rain?

Precipitation that contains higher than normal levels of sulfuric and nitric acids.

What are some examples of mitigation technologies for air pollutants?

Scrubbers, catalytic converters, and emission controls.

What does the term 'sanitary landfill' refer to?

A waste disposal site designed to contain waste safely.

What is the hierarchy of solid waste disposal?

Reduce > Reuse > Recycle > Compost > Energy recovery > Landfill.

What is the primary component of ground-level ozone?

It is formed as a secondary pollutant from reactions involving VOCs and NOx.

What factor significantly influences fuel choice?

Energy density, emissions, and infrastructure requirements.