P4: Energy Resources

Question 1

What is meant by an energy resource?

Answer 1

A resource than can be used to generate electricity.

Question 2

Name the 3 main fossil fuels.

Answer 2

Coal

Oil

Natural Gas

Question 3

What is a fossil fuel?

Answer 3

A fuel that has been formed by fossilised remains of plants or animals.

Question 4

What is coal formed from?

Answer 4

The fossilised remains of TREES that have been compressed and heated in the ground over millions of years.

Question 5

What are oil and gas formed from?

Answer 5

The fossilised remains of ANIMALS that have been compressed and heated in the ground over millions of years.

Question 6

Briefly describe how a coal fired power station generates electricity

Answer 6

• Burning coal heats water
• The steam produced turns a turbine
• The turbine is attached to a generator which generates electricity

Question 7

What are the problems associated with burning fossil fuels?

Answer 7

They produce a lot of carbon dioxide.

Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas.

Greenhouse gases cause global warming.

Question 8

What is meant by a renewable energy resource?

Answer 8

An energy resource that will not run out.

Question 9

List examples of renewable energy sources:

Answer 9

• Wind turbines
• Solar energy
• Tidal energy
• Hydroelectric
• Geothermal
• Biomass

Question 10

List the advantages and disadvantages of renewable energy resources.

Answer 10

Advantages

• Won’t run out
• Less atmospheric pollution
• Minimal running costs

Disadvantages

• Provide less energy
• Unreliable e.g. not always windy
• Damage environment e.g. wind turbines
• High start up costs