GPT EXAM: BIOMASS AS ENERGY

How is biomass used for energy?

Biomass can be burned directly for heat, converted into biofuels like ethanol and biodiesel, or used to produce biogas through anaerobic digestion.

What is biomass?

Biomass is organic material derived from living or recently living organisms, primarily plants, that can be used as an energy source.

What is anaerobic digestion, and how does it relate to biomass energy?

Anaerobic digestion is a process where microorganisms break down organic material without oxygen, producing methane-rich biogas used for energy.

What are some common sources of biomass?

Wood, crop residues, animal manure, algae, and organic waste.

What are the main types of biofuels produced from biomass?

Ethanol, biodiesel, and biogas.

What are the advantages of using biomass for energy?

Biomass is renewable, reduces waste, and can decrease reliance on fossil fuels.

What are the disadvantages of using biomass for energy?

Biomass combustion releases carbon dioxide, can contribute to deforestation, and may compete with food production.

What is the difference between biomass and fossil fuels?

Biomass is renewable and comes from recently living organisms, while fossil fuels are derived from ancient organic matter and take millions of years to form.

How does burning biomass compare to burning fossil fuels in terms of carbon emissions?

Burning biomass releases CO₂, but the plants that release it also absorbed CO₂ during growth, making it a more carbon-neutral option than fossil fuels.

How does ethanol fuel compare to gasoline in terms of efficiency and environmental impact?

Ethanol burns cleaner than gasoline but has a lower energy content per gallon, requiring more fuel to achieve the same energy output.