Energy and Climate Change Flashcards
Energy Sources
Biomass
- Burning fuel from living things (e.g., wood).
- Renewable only if replanted.
Geothermal
- Uses heat beneath the ground.
- Water pumped underground is warmed by rocks.
Solar Energy
- Solar panels/tubes: Heat water using sunlight.
- Solar cells: Transform light energy to electrical energy (e.g., solar-powered calculator).
Wind Energy
- Wind turbines are a fast-growing energy source.
- One large turbine can power over 300 homes.
Climate Change vs. Global Warming
- Burning fossil fuels impacts Earth's processes.
- Transition to renewable energy is crucial.
Nuclear Power
Advantages:
- High energy output.
- Very little greenhouse gas emissions.
- Reduces dependence on fossil fuels.
- Efficient energy production.
Disadvantages:
- Safety issues.
- Problems storing/disposing of used fuel.
- Environmental/health issues from uranium mining.
- Limited reactor lifespan (approximately 60 years).
Energy Demand
- As economies develop, energy demand increases.
- World population growth increases energy demands.
- World energy demand expected to increase by 55% by 2030.
Changing Energy Use Targets
- Need for greater renewable energy use and energy efficiency.
- Fossil fuels may run out in 50-100 years.
- EU aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80-95% by 2050.
Current and Future Energy Requirements
- High energy demand per individual.
- Fossil fuels and nuclear energy supply 93% of world's energy.
- Renewable energy sources supply the remaining 7%.
- Enough solar energy hits Earth every hour to power it for a year.