Earth and Space Science Concepts

These flashcards cover key concepts in Earth and Space Science related to resource management, fossil fuels, and environmental issues.

What is one method through which hydrocarbons like crude oil are formed?

From organic matter, primarily plankton and algae, that is buried and transformed under pressure and temperature.

What are hydrocarbons?

Naturally occurring organic compounds made up of hydrogen and carbon that can occur as gases, liquids, or solids.

What is primary migration in the context of hydrocarbons?

The movement of newly generated hydrocarbons out of the source rock.

What is hydraulic fracturing (fracking)?

A method used to extract crude oil and natural gas from low permeability rock formations by creating fractures.

What are the byproducts when crude oil is burned?

Greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane.

What are some products derived from petroleum used in medicine?

Surgical instruments, cosmetics, medicine packaging, and plastic prosthetics.

What environmental concerns are associated with coal mining?

Air pollution, health risks to miners, and habitat destruction.

What is the primary fuel used in nuclear energy?

Uranium-235.

What catastrophic events raised concerns about nuclear energy?

The Chernobyl disaster (1986) and Fukushima disaster (2011).

What do seals or cap rocks do in hydrocarbon reservoirs?

They prevent the upward escape of hydrocarbons from the reservoir.

How is energy from fossil fuels primarily generated?

By burning fossil fuels which releases potential energy stored in the chemical bonds.

What are two examples of unconventional oil and gas extraction methods?

Horizontal drilling and fracking.

What is the role of algae in energy production?

Algae absorb solar energy and produce glucose through photosynthesis, leading to the formation of fossil fuels.