Exam Review: Energy Resources and Climate Change

This set of flashcards covers essential concepts related to energy resources and climate change, based on lecture notes for exam preparation.

What is the difference between kinetic and potential energy?

Kinetic energy is the energy of motion, while potential energy is stored energy due to position or state.

What is the definition of a renewable resource?

A renewable resource is one that can be naturally replenished within approximately 100 years.

What type of original organic material produces coal?

Coal is produced from decayed swamp vegetation (land plants).

What is fracking?

Fracking is a process that uses high-pressure injections of water, sand, and chemicals to break rocks to release and retrieve oil/gas from fine-grained rocks.

What is the significance of greenhouse gases?

Greenhouse gases trap longwave infrared radiation in Earth's atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect and climate change.

Which factors affect Earth's climate?

Plate tectonics, seasons affected by Milankovitch cycles, and greenhouse gas concentrations are main factors that affect Earth's climate.

What are the main components of solid soil particles?

The main components of solid soil particles are Quartz and Feldspars.

What is loam and why is it important?

Loam is a soil with a high percentage of silt, moderate sand, and low-moderate clay, and is important because it is drought resistant and retains sufficient water for crops.

What triggers mass wasting events?

Common triggers of mass wasting events include earthquakes, excess water, removal of vegetation, and steep slopes.

What is the 'tragedy of the commons'?

The 'tragedy of the commons' is a problem where individuals deplete shared resources for short-term gains, leading to long-term detriment for all users.