AP Environmental Science Exam Study Flashcards

These flashcards cover key concepts in AP Environmental Science related to energy sources, their impacts, and sustainability.

Renewable Energy Sources

Energy sources that can be replenished naturally, at or near the rate of consumption, such as solar, wind, and geothermal.

Nonrenewable Energy Sources

Energy sources that exist in fixed amounts and cannot be easily replaced, such as fossil fuels and nuclear energy.

Biomass

Organic material used as fuel, including wood and animal waste; can contribute to deforestation when overharvested.

Hydraulic Fracturing (Fracking)

A method of natural gas extraction that involves cracking rock layers to release trapped gas, which can lead to groundwater contamination.

Fossil Fuels

Natural substances derived from ancient biomass, including coal, oil, and natural gas, which take millions of years to form.

Geothermal Energy

Energy obtained from the heat stored in the Earth's interior, used to generate electricity or heat buildings.

Nuclear Fission

The process of splitting atoms of uranium to release energy in the form of heat, used in nuclear power plants.

Hydroelectric Power

Electricity generated by using the kinetic energy of moving water, typically through dams.

Photovoltaic Cells (PV)

Devices that convert light energy from the sun directly into electrical energy, commonly used in solar panels.

Carbon Neutral

A term used to describe a process that does not increase atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, such as burning biomass.

Wind Turbines

Devices that convert the kinetic energy of wind into electricity, which can impact local wildlife.

Energy Conservation

Methods to reduce energy consumption, such as improving insulation, using energy-efficient appliances, and altering behavior.

Energy Return on Investment (EROI)

A measure of the amount of energy gained from an energy source compared to the amount of energy invested in obtaining it.

Tar Sands

Bitumen deposits where crude oil can be extracted, requiring high energy and water input for processing.

Cogeneration

The simultaneous production of electricity and useful heat from the same energy source, increasing energy efficiency.

Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA)

Processes used to evaluate the environmental consequences of proposed projects.