finals Flashcards
(34 cards)
What is the SI unit of energy, and how is it defined?
The joule (J); it’s the work done by a force of one newton moving an object one meter.
What is a kilowatt-hour (kWh) equivalent to in joules?
1 kWh = 3.6 million joules (3.6 x 10⁶ J)
Define “primary energy source.”
An energy form found in nature that hasn’t been subjected to any human conversion process.
What are examples of energy carriers?
Electricity, refined oil (gasoline), hydrogen, stored energy (batteries, dammed water).
What percentage of global primary energy came from fossil fuels in 2023?
81.5%
Which countries are the largest fossil fuel consumers today?
United States, China, and India.
What event caused a spike in U.S. oil policy interest and led to fuel efficiency standards?
The 1973 Arab-Israeli War and subsequent oil embargo.
What is the current estimated lifespan of global crude oil reserves at present consumption rates?
Less than 50 years.
What percentage of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions comes from fossil fuel combustion?
82%
What three fossil fuels dominate the global energy mix?
Coal, oil, and natural gas.
What is a key environmental issue caused by coal?
It emits the most CO₂ per unit of energy and severely impacts air quality.
What process do fossil fuels support that boosts food production but relies on natural gas?
The Haber-Bosch process for synthesizing ammonia for fertilizer.
What was the green revolution?
a period of significant technological advancements in agriculture, primarily in the 1960s and 1970s, that led to a substantial increase in food production, especially in developing countries.
What is Denmark’s climate goal by 2050?
Net zero carbon emissions.
Name three leading renewable energy sources by global use.
Hydropower, wind, and solar.
Why is wind energy considered increasingly viable?
Modern turbines are efficient; one turn can power thousands of devices.
What’s a downside of biomass despite being renewable?
It can still emit pollutants and isn’t always sustainable.
Name four major greenhouse gases other than CO₂.
Methane (CH₄), Nitrous Oxide (N₂O), HFCs, SF₆.
What’s the current ppm of CO₂ in the atmosphere (from your notes)?
425 ppm.
What is radiative forcing?
The difference in energy entering vs. leaving Earth’s atmosphere, indicating energy imbalance
What is the target CO₂ emissions drop by 2030 to stay under 2°C warming?
20% from 2010 levels.
What is one simple act individuals can take to reduce energy waste?
Avoid food waste—use what you buy instead of letting it rot.
What are Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions?
Scope 1: Direct emissions (e.g. fuel burning on site)
Scope 2: Indirect from purchased electricity/heating
Scope 3: Other indirect (e.g. commuting, goods)
What sector is the largest source of U.S. carbon emissions?
Transportation (29%)
