Energy Resources in Environmental Systems

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions regarding energy resources discussed in the Environmental Systems lecture.

Fossil Fuels

Energy resources formed from decomposed plants and animals, including oil, natural gas, and coal.

Net Energy Yield

The amount of usable energy obtained from a resource after the energy costs of obtaining it are subtracted.

OPEC

Organization of Oil-Exporting Countries that controls a significant portion of the world’s proven oil reserves.

Crude Oil

A black, gooey mixture of different combustible hydrocarbons, formed by pressure on decayed organic remains.

Greenhouse Gases

Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.

Fracking

Hydraulic fracturing, a technique used to extract oil and natural gas from shale, involving the injection of fluid to fracture the rock.

Tar Sands

Oil mixed with clay and sand, containing bitumen; extraction is environmentally harmful.

Renewable Energy

Energy resources that can be replenished naturally, such as solar, wind, and geothermal energy.

Nuclear Power

Energy produced from nuclear fission, which has low environmental impact but raises concerns about accidents and radioactive waste.

Coal

Solid fossil fuel formed from decaying organic matter, known for its high pollution levels when burned.

Methane

A greenhouse gas that is a primary component of natural gas, and poses a significant environmental challenge.

Degrowth

An economic approach aimed at reducing consumption and production to achieve ecological sustainability.