2 Features of Energy Resources Flashcards
(20 cards)
What factors may influence the life expectancy of a mineral resource?
Factors include:
* Energy density
* Availability
* Level of technological development
These factors determine how long a resource can be utilized before it is depleted.
What are the effects of variations in the predicted life spans of reserves on economies?
Variations can lead to:
* Economic instability
* Changes in investment strategies
* Dependence on resource imports
Countries reliant on resource exports may experience significant economic fluctuations based on reserve life predictions.
Which countries consume the most resources?
Countries with highest consumption typically include:
* United States
* China
* India
These countries have high industrial activity and large populations contributing to resource consumption.
What are the environmental consequences of resource consumption?
Consequences include:
* Habitat destruction
* Pollution
* Climate change
Resource extraction and consumption can have dire effects on ecosystems and biodiversity.
Who are the main consumers of resources?
Main consumers include:
* Developed countries
* Emerging economies
These groups often have higher industrial demands and energy needs.
What is a characteristic of non-renewable resources?
Non-renewable resources are:
* Finite
* Formed slowly by natural processes
Their depletion is irreversible within human timescales.
What advantages do fossil fuels provide?
Advantages include:
* High energy density
* Technological safety
* Abundant supply
Fossil fuels can achieve high temperatures in combustion, making them efficient energy sources.
What are the disadvantages of nuclear energy?
Disadvantages include:
* High costs of plants
* Long-term radioactive waste
* Safety concerns
Nuclear energy has low emissions but poses significant risks.
What are the advantages of renewable energy sources?
Advantages include:
* No CO2 emissions during operation
* Sustainable
Renewables harness natural processes and can mitigate climate change.
What are the disadvantages of renewable energy sources?
Disadvantages include:
* Intermittent supply
* Low energy density
* Environmental impacts
Some renewables can disrupt local ecosystems and wildlife.
Fill in the blank: Depletable resources are those resources where use can ______ future availability.
reduce
What does abundance measure in the context of resources?
Abundance measures:
* The total amount of resources available
* Accessibility limitations
Not all abundant resources are easily extractable due to environmental or technological constraints.
What is the difference between stocks and reserves?
Stocks are:
* Resources already extracted and stored
Reserves are:
* Resources known to exist but not yet extracted
Understanding this distinction is crucial for resource management.
What is the life cycle of a finite resource?
The life cycle includes:
* Extraction
* Use
* Depletion
* Recycling or reduction strategies
Effective management can extend resource availability.
How many years of coal are left?
Between 150 and 200 years
How many years of oil are left?
Approx. 50 years
How many years of gas are left?
Approx. 55 years
True or False: Non-renewable resources are being formed at a pace fast enough to replace current consumption.
False
What are some examples of renewable energy resources?
Examples include:
* Solar energy
* Wind energy
* Hydropower
These resources can be replenished naturally in a short time frame.
What are some examples of non-renewable energy resources?
Examples include:
* Coal
* Oil
* Natural gas
These resources take millions of years to form and are finite.
