Environmental technologies Flashcards
(221 cards)
1
Q
What is the purpose of permitted development in the context of building regulations?
A
To allow certain building work without needing planning permission.
2
Q
Which act brought microgeneration under the requirements of the Building Regulations in the UK?
A
The Climate Change and Sustainable Energy Act 2006.
3
Q
Who is responsible for ensuring that Building Regulations have been met during the installation of microrenewable technologies?
A
The installer.
4
Q
What are the key components of a solar thermal hot-water system?
A
A solar thermal collector, a differential temperature controller, and a hot-water storage cylinder.
5
Q
Which part of the Building Regulations in England focuses on ventilation in buildings?
A
Part F
6
Q
What is the primary source of energy for a solar thermal hot-water system?
A
Solar radiation
7
Q
Which term refers to the small-scale generation of heat or electric power by individuals, small businesses, and communities?
A
Microgeneration
8
Q
What is the purpose of a differential temperature controller in a solar thermal hot-water system?
A
To regulate the temperature of the hot water
9
Q
Which part of the Building Regulations in England deals with the conservation of fuel and power?
A
Part L
10
Q
What is the role of Local Authority Building Control (LABC) in the context of Building Regulations?
A
Checking for compliance with Building Regulations.
11
Q
What is the primary purpose of Permitted Development in the context of building regulations?
A
To streamline the planning application process.
12
Q
Which organization is responsible for checking compliance with Building Regulations in the UK?
A
Local Authority Building Control (LABC)
13
Q
What is the purpose of an Approved Document in relation to Building Regulations in England?
A
To serve as a non-statutory guideline on how to comply with statutory requirements.
14
Q
In England, which part of the Building Regulations focuses on drainage and waste disposal in buildings?
A
Part H
15
Q
Which term describes the small-scale generation of electric power or heat for self-use, as an alternative to grid-connected power?
A
Microgeneration
16
Q
Which technology uses solar radiation to produce heat directly or indirectly?
A
Solar thermal (hot-water) systems
17
Q
In the UK, which Part of the Building Regulations deals with electrical safety in buildings?
A
Part P
18
Q
What is the primary purpose of a circulating pump in a solar thermal hot-water system?
A
To transport solar radiation from the collector to the storage cylinder
19
Q
Which Act in the UK brought microgeneration under the purview of the Building Regulations?
A
The Climate Change and Sustainable Energy Act 2006
20
Q
Which Building Regulations in England focus on the structure of buildings?
A
Part A
21
Q
What is the primary function of a solar thermal collector?
A
To absorb heat radiation from the Sun
22
Q
Which of the following statements is true about flat-plate collectors compared to evacuated-tube collectors?
A
Flat-plate collectors are less efficient but cheaper.
23
Q
What is the primary purpose of insulation in a flat-plate solar thermal collector?
A
To prevent heat from escaping
24
Q
: In an evacuated-tube collector, what is the role of the heat tube containing methanol?
A
To transfer heat to the heat-transfer fluid
25
What happens to the methanol vapor in the heat tubes of an evacuated-tube collector when it is heated?
It condenses and flows down the tubes.
26
In which type of cylinder does the lower coil represent the solar heating circuit?
Twin-coil cylinder
27
What distinguishes a direct system from an indirect system in solar thermal hot-water systems?
In a direct system, the hot water for taps circulates through the solar collector.
28
What serves as the auxiliary heat source when there is insufficient solar energy available for hot water?
Electric immersion heaters
29
What is the ideal orientation for solar collectors to maximize efficiency?
Due south
30
What percentage of sunlight blockage can significantly reduce a solar collector's efficiency?
35%
31
Which Part of the Building Regulations in the UK deals with energy efficiency and fuel conservation?
Part L
32
What type of solar thermal collector is generally considered more efficient but also more expensive?
Evacuated-tube collector
33
Which component of a solar thermal system is responsible for circulating the heat-transfer fluid in the solar hot-water circuit?
Circulating pump
34
In a twin-coil cylinder, which coil represents the auxiliary heating circuit?
Upper coil
35
What is the ideal angle for solar collectors in the UK to maximize their efficiency?
35 degrees
36
What is the primary purpose of a differential temperature controller (DTC) in a solar thermal system?
To control the temperature difference between the collector and hot-water storage
37
What type of water is typically used as the heat-transfer fluid in solar thermal systems?
Water mixed with antifreeze (glycol)
38
In a direct system, what circulates through the solar collector and is drawn off at the taps?
The same water used for taps
39
Which regulatory document outlines the wiring regulations for solar thermal systems?
BS 7671: 2018 (2022) The IET Wiring Regulations
40
What is one of the advantages of solar thermal hot-water systems?
Reduced CO2 emissions
41
What is the primary purpose of a heat pump?
To extract and transfer heat energy
42
At what temperature does heat energy cease to exist in a system?
-273°C
43
What is the primary role of the compressor in a heat pump?
To compress the refrigerant and raise its temperature
44
How does heat move according to the basic rule of heat transfer?
From warmer spaces to colder spaces
45
What is the efficiency of a heat pump typically measured with?
Coefficient of Performance (COP)
46
Which type of heat pump is more efficient in milder weather conditions?
Air-source heat pump (ASHP)
47
What is the purpose of a buffer tank in a heat pump system?
To allow continuous operation and store excess heat
48
What is the primary advantage of using under-floor heating with a ground-source heat pump (GSHP)?
Higher heat output
49
Which component of a heat pump system can provide cooling during the summer by reversing the refrigeration process?
Compressor
50
What is the primary source of heat energy that heat pumps extract and transfer?
Air or ground
51
What role does the refrigerant play in a heat pump system?
Absorbing and releasing heat
52
What does COP stand for in the context of heat pump efficiency?
Coefficient of Performance
53
In what situation does a heat pump work most efficiently?
In mild weather
54
What is the primary function of a buffer tank in a heat pump system?
To maintain continuous operation
55
Which type of heat pump is suitable for both heating and cooling applications?
Air-source heat pump (ASHP)
56
What is the primary advantage of using low-temperature radiators with a ground-source heat pump (GSHP)?
Reduced maintenance costs
57
Which component of a heat pump system is responsible for extracting heat from the ground?
Heat-collection loops and a pump
58
In a ground-source heat pump (GSHP) system, how are the heat-collection loops typically installed?
In horizontal trenches
59
What temperature does the heat output from a ground-source heat pump (GSHP) typically reach?
40°C
60
What is the primary source of heat energy that air-source heat pumps extract and release?
Low-temperature air
61
What are the key components of an air-source heat pump (ASHP)?
A heat exchanger, a compressor, and an expansion valve
62
How does an air-source heat pump (ASHP) work in relation to a refrigerator?
ASHP releases heat to the outside like a refrigerator
63
What type of heating system is ideally suited to be coupled with an air-source heat pump (ASHP)?
Under-floor heating or warm-air heating
64
In what type of premises are air-source heat pumps (ASHPs) an ideal solution?
New-build properties with high insulation levels and under-floor heating
65
Under what conditions is planning permission typically required for the installation of an air-source heat pump (ASHP)?
Only for listed buildings or buildings in conservation areas
66
What is the primary disadvantage of air-source heat pumps (ASHPs) compared to ground-source heat pumps (GSHPs)?
Lower efficiency in mild weather
67
Why do air-source heat pumps (ASHPs) generate noise?
Due to the fans
68
What does COP stand for in the context of air-source heat pump efficiency?
Coefficient of Performance
69
What is the primary advantage of air-source heat pumps (ASHPs) compared to ground-source heat pumps (GSHPs)?
Lower installation costs
70
Which of the following is NOT a key component of an air-source heat pump (ASHP)?
Buffer tank
71
What is the primary disadvantage of air-source heat pumps (ASHPs) during the winter?
Reduced efficiency
72
Which type of heat emitters (heating devices) is most suitable for use with an air-source heat pump (ASHP)?
Under-floor heating
72
Why is an ASHP more efficient in mild weather compared to cold weather?
The heat source is colder in mild weather
73
In which type of building are air-source heat pumps (ASHPs) typically NOT recommended?
Buildings in conservation areas
74
What is the purpose of the expansion valve in an air-source heat pump (ASHP)?
To lower the refrigerant's pressure and temperature
75
What does the acronym MCS stand for in the context of ASHP planning standards?
Microgeneration Certification Scheme
76
What type of heating system is NOT suitable for coupling with an air-source heat pump (ASHP)?
Gas-fired boiler
77
Which of the following is a disadvantage of air-source heat pumps (ASHPs) compared to ground-source heat pumps (GSHPs)?
Incompatibility with existing heating systems
78
What is the purpose of a defrost cycle in an air-source heat pump (ASHP)?
To keep the evaporator from freezing
79
What is the primary advantage of air-source heat pumps (ASHPs) over traditional gas or oil boilers in terms of environmental impact?
Reduced carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions
80
What is the major difference between biomass and fossil fuels?
Biomass is carbon-neutral, while fossil fuels are not.
81
Why is biomass considered a renewable energy technology?
It can be replenished as long as demand does not exceed replacement time.
82
What is a disadvantage of biomass compared to fossil fuels regarding heat output?
Biomass requires a greater quantity to achieve the same heat output.
83
Which of the following is NOT a class of biomass raw material that can be turned into biomass fuels?
Natural gas
84
What is the primary factor affecting the calorific value of woody biomass?
The moisture content of the wood
85
How do woody biomass boilers transfer heat to the central heating system?
Through a heat exchanger
86
In what circumstances would planning permission be required for the installation of a biomass boiler?
Only if the installation involves external work
87
What is an "exempt appliance" in the context of biomass heating?
An appliance designed to burn specific fuels without emitting smoke
88
What are the advantages of biomass fuels?
Carbon neutrality, sustainability, low greenhouse gas emissions
89
Which of the following is NOT an electricity-producing micro-renewable energy technology discussed in the section?
Geothermal
90
What is the main environmental concern associated with the use of biomass fuels?
Greenhouse gas emissions
91
How does the calorific value of woody biomass change with moisture content?
It decreases with higher moisture content.
92
What is the purpose of an inverter in an off-grid electricity-producing micro-renewable energy system?
To convert DC electricity to AC electricity
93
What is the significance of deep-cycle batteries in off-grid electricity-producing micro-renewable energy systems?
They can efficiently store and release electricity.
94
In on-grid electricity-producing micro-renewable energy systems, what happens to excess electricity generated?
It is exported back to the grid.
95
What type of connection exists in an off-grid electricity-producing micro-renewable energy system?
Off-grid connection
96
Why was the Clean Air Act of 1956 introduced in the United Kingdom?
To address poor air quality caused by smog from coal burning
97
What is the primary advantage of electricity-producing micro-renewable energy technologies over traditional fossil fuel-based electricity generation?
They produce no carbon emissions.
98
What is the lifespan of typical deep-cycle batteries used in off-grid renewable energy systems?
5 years
99
Which of the following is a potential disadvantage of using biomass for heat production compared to using a gas boiler?
Biomass is not carbon-neutral.
100
What is the primary function of a solar photovoltaic (PV) cell?
To convert light into electricity
101
Which semiconductor material is most commonly used in the production of PV cells?
Silicon
102
What type of semiconductor material is created by adding an impurity to silicon through the process of "doping"?
n-type semiconductor
103
How is the voltage generated in a photovoltaic cell when exposed to photons?
Photons allow electrons to overcome their bonds and generate voltage.
104
What is the primary purpose of connecting PV modules in series to create "strings"?
To increase the voltage output
105
In which type of PV system are PV modules used to charge batteries?
Off-grid systems
106
What is the key function of an inverter in a PV system?
To convert DC electricity to AC electricity
107
What is the primary purpose of a generation meter in a PV system?
To record the number of units generated
108
Which direction is considered optimum for the solar collectors (PV modules) to face in the UK?
Due south
109
What factor is responsible for reducing the efficiency of a PV system that does not face due south?
Shade
110
In which direction should PV modules ideally face to maximize energy generation throughout the day?
Due south
111
What is the maximum theoretical efficiency that can be obtained with a single junction silicon cell?
34%
112
Which type of PV module has the advantage of flexibility and is ideal for non-flat surfaces?
Amorphous film
113
What component of a PV system converts the DC input to a 230 V AC output?
Inverter
114
What type of connection is typically used to connect a PV system to the grid supply within domestic premises?
Grid-tied connection
115
What is the purpose of an isolator in a PV system?
To allow isolation for maintenance
116
Under what circumstances might planning permission not be required for the installation of a PV system on a dwelling house?
If specific criteria are met
117
In which case is planning permission typically required for a PV system installation?
On a dwelling house in a conservation area
118
What is the maximum allowable height for a stand-alone PV array in the UK?
4 meters
119
What direction should a PV array face to achieve the most efficient energy generation in the UK?
South
120
In an on-grid PV system, what is the primary purpose of AC cabling?
To synchronize with the mains supply frequency
121
What is the main function of tracking systems in PV mounting systems?
To change both azimuth and tilt to track the Sun's position
122
Why are on-roof PV systems commonly used for retrofit installations?
They do not require additional mounting systems.
123
What is the function of DC isolators in a PV system?
To allow isolation for maintenance or emergencies
124
Which PV system type is ideal for locations with no mains supply and relatively small power demand?
Off-grid system
125
What is the primary purpose of deep-discharge batteries in an off-grid PV system?
To store excess electricity
126
In a PV system, what does "wind uplift" refer to?
The force exerted by the wind on the module and mounting system
127
Which type of PV module is known for its higher efficiency but is generally more expensive to purchase?
Monocrystalline modules
128
What is the primary purpose of the isolator at the intake position in a PV system connected to the grid?
To isolate the PV system from the grid for safety or maintenance
129
In a PV system, what determines the suitability of a location for installation?
Factors such as orientation, shading, and location within the UK
130
What is one advantage of solar PV systems?
They use zero-carbon technology.
131
What is a disadvantage of solar PV systems?
They give variable output dependent on sunshine.
132
Which of the following is NOT a disadvantage of solar PV systems?
Reduction in electricity imported
133
What is an advantage of micro-wind systems?
They produce no CO2 emissions.
134
Which of the following is a disadvantage of micro-wind systems?
They have high initial costs.
135
What is an important consideration when installing a micro-wind turbine?
Turbine vibration should be addressed.
136
When can permitted development apply to building-mounted wind turbines?
Only for detached premises
137
What is NOT a condition for permitted development of wind turbines?
Minimum distance of 2 m from the boundary
138
Which of the following is an advantage of solar PV systems related to electricity generation?
They generate electricity even on cloudy days.
139
What is a primary disadvantage of solar PV systems in terms of aesthetics?
They can detract from the building's visual appeal.
140
Which aspect of solar PV systems contributes to reducing electricity bills?
Selling excess electricity to the grid
141
Why can micro-wind systems be particularly effective in the UK?
The UK experiences strong Atlantic winds.
142
What is a common drawback of micro-wind systems related to their performance?
Dependence on wind availability
143
Why might micro-wind turbines cause shadow flicker?
Because their blades obstruct sunlight
144
In which season do micro-wind systems tend to produce the most energy?
Winter
145
What is an essential consideration when installing a micro-wind turbine in terms of noise?
Turbine noise can affect nearby buildings.
146
Which of the following is NOT a factor considered for permitted development of wind turbines?
Location within a national park
147
What is the main advantage of micro-wind systems in areas without access to mains electricity?
They can provide an independent source of electricity.
148
What is the primary benefit of selling excess electricity generated by solar PV systems back to the grid?
It reduces the amount of electricity imported.
149
Why is it important to consider the average wind speed when determining the suitability of a location for a micro-wind turbine?
Wind turbines work best at higher wind speeds.
150
What is the primary source of kinetic energy harnessed by micro-hydro-electric generation?
Water flow from higher to lower levels
151
In micro-hydro systems, what is the purpose of the forebay?
To ensure the penstock remains pressurized and handle surges in demand
152
What is "gross head" when determining the suitability of a water source for hydro-electric generation?
The vertical height difference between the inlet and outlet positions
153
Which of the following is a classification of head height typically used when assessing water sources for micro-hydro systems?
Medium head, 10–50 m
154
What is "net head" used for in micro-hydro calculations?
It calculates potential power generation, accounting for losses due to friction.
155
Which type of turbine is typically used with high-head water sources?
Pelton turbine
156
What is the primary advantage of the reverse Archimedes' screw turbine?
It is suitable for fish migration.
157
Why is planning permission required for micro-hydro schemes?
To consider environmental impacts and measures to minimize them
158
Which of the following is NOT one of the regulatory requirements to consider for micro-hydro systems?
Traffic regulations
159
What is a significant advantage of micro-hydro systems over some other microgeneration technologies?
They are not affected by weather conditions.
160
What role does the penstock play in a micro-hydro system?
It connects the intake to the forebay.
161
What is the primary purpose of an environmental statement in the context of a micro-hydro scheme?
To describe environmental impacts and mitigation measures.
162
Which type of turbine is most suitable for low-head water sources?
Archimedes' screw turbine
163
Why is an impoundment licence required in micro-hydro systems?
To control the water flow within the main stream of water.
164
What is a significant advantage of micro-hydro systems over other renewable energy sources like solar and wind?
They produce electricity year-round.
165
What is the primary function of the tailrace in a micro-hydro system?
To return water exiting the turbines to the main stream or river
166
Which type of turbine operates with water jets driving the runner and is typically used with high-head water sources?
Pelton turbine
167
What is the main reason why planning permission is required for micro-hydro schemes?
To consider environmental impacts and minimize them
168
What does "net head" take into account when calculating potential power generation in a micro-hydro system?
Losses due to friction in the penstock
169
In a micro-hydro system, which type of turbine is most suitable for low-head water sources and is designed to be "fish-friendly"?
Archimedes' screw turbine
170
What is the primary function of an mCHP unit?
To generate heat as the primary function, with electricity generation as a secondary function.
171
Which fuel sources are commonly used to power domestic mCHP units?
Natural gas and liquid propane gas (LPG)
172
What is the main advantage of locally generated power by mCHP units?
It reduces transmission losses.
173
What type of engine is typically used in domestic mCHP units to produce electricity?
Stirling engine
174
In what type of building is an mCHP system most viable in terms of carbon savings?
Buildings with a high demand for space heating
175
What is the primary function of the supplementary burner in an mCHP unit?
To provide backup heating when there is a high demand for heat
176
What type of gas is typically used within a Stirling engine in an mCHP unit?
Helium
177
Why is an mCHP system considered a carbon-reduction technology rather than a carbon-free technology?
It reduces carbon emissions compared to conventional power generation.
178
What is the primary benefit of connecting an mCHP unit to the supply via a dedicated circuit?
It facilitates easy isolation of the generator from the incoming supply.
179
In which type of building is an mCHP system least likely to be suitable?
Small, well-insulated buildings
180
What is the primary advantage of using gas in an mCHP system for electricity generation?
Gas is cheaper than electricity, resulting in cost savings.
181
What is the primary disadvantage of mCHP systems in terms of electricity generation capacity?
They have limited capacity for the generation of electricity.
182
What is the primary purpose of an environmental statement in the context of mCHP system installation?
To describe environmental impacts and mitigation measures.
183
In what type of location is a micro-CHP system typically powered by biomass fuels?
Rural areas
184
What is the efficiency of an mCHP unit in terms of electricity generation compared to a modern condensing boiler?
Same efficiency
185
What is the key component responsible for generating electricity in an mCHP unit?
Stirling engine generator
186
Which type of engine is used in a Stirling engine generator in an mCHP unit?
None of the above (Stirling engines are distinct from internal combustion engines)
187
What is the primary function of the engine burner in an mCHP unit when there is demand for heat?
To preheat the heating-system return water
188
In terms of cost savings, why is locally generated power by mCHP units advantageous compared to using electricity from the grid?
Locally generated power reduces transmission losses.
189
What is the main reason for using a Stirling engine in mCHP units?
Stirling engines are quieter.
190
In which type of building is mCHP most likely to result in greater carbon savings?
Buildings with a high demand for space heating
191
Why is planning permission not typically required for the installation of an mCHP unit inside a domestic dwelling?
The installation is considered a permitted development.
192
What is one common perception about the climate of the UK mentioned in the text?
The UK has a lot of rain, especially in the west.
193
Why are hose-pipe bans common in many parts of the UK during the summer months?
Because water supply systems are overwhelmed by increased demand.
194
What are the two methods of water conservation discussed in the text?
Rainwater harvesting and reuse of greywater.
195
What does a water bill typically consist of?
Charges for fresh water supplied and charges for sewage or waste water taken away.
196
How can water conservation reduce the cost of water bills?
By reducing the demand for water.
197
What percentage of an average household's consumption is used for flushing toilets?
28.1%
198
Why is rainwater considered a valuable resource for conservation?
Rainwater can replace wholesome water for various non-drinking purposes.
199
What is the primary limitation of using rainwater for drinking purposes?
Rainwater is classified as 'fluid category 5' risk.
200
What is the first step in the process of rainwater harvesting?
Collection
201
What factors determine the amount of rainwater that can be collected during rainfall?
The size of the storage tank and the number of downpipes.
202
What is the purpose of filtration in the rainwater harvesting process?
To remove debris and contaminants.
203
what is the primary purpose of storage tanks in rainwater harvesting?
To protect rainwater from direct sunlight.
204
How is the size of a rainwater storage tank typically determined?
Based on 5% of the annual rainwater supply or anticipated demand.
205
What type of pump is used to transport rainwater from the storage tank to the point of demand?
Submersible pump
206
What is the purpose of an overflow pipe in a rainwater storage tank?
To connect to the drainage system of the property.
207
Which type of water is considered suitable for direct consumption in the UK?
Wholesome water
208
What is the primary purpose of an indirect distribution system in greywater reuse?
To prevent cross-contamination with wholesome water.
209
What is the primary method of treating greywater in a short-retention system?
Filtration
210
Which system uses biological and physical methods to treat greywater?
Biomechanical system
211
Why is an air gap maintained between wholesome water and greywater in greywater reuse systems?
To provide backflow prevention and avoid cross-contamination.
212
What is the primary purpose of rainwater harvesting?
To reuse rainwater for various non-drinking purposes.
213
What can rainwater harvested from hard standings, such as driveways, be contaminated with?
Organic matter and bacteria.
214
Why is it essential to protect rainwater storage tanks from direct sunlight?
To prevent algae growth.
215
Which of the following is NOT a suitable use for harvested rainwater?
Washing dishes
216
What is the primary purpose of the short-retention system in greywater reuse?
To reduce water usage in toilets.
217
In a biomechanical system for greywater reuse, which substances are filtered out during the treatment process?
Soap, detergents, and cosmetic products.
218
Why is it essential to label outlets supplied with treated greywater and indicate that the water is not suitable for drinking?
To prevent cross-contamination with wholesome water.
219
: What type of pump is typically used in a direct distribution system for greywater reuse?
Centrifugal pump
220
Why are there long payback periods associated with greywater reuse systems?
Because of the initial high installation costs.
