Hydro-electricity, Waves and Tides Flashcards
Energy (19 cards)
What is the primary requirement for hydro-electric power generation?
The flooding of a valley by building a big dam
Water is allowed out through turbines, and there is no pollution as such.
What are the environmental impacts of hydro-electric power?
Flooding of the valley, rotting vegetation releases methane and CO2, possible loss of habitat for some species
This can sometimes include the loss of whole villages.
How does hydro-electric power respond to increased electricity demand?
It provides an immediate response to an increased demand for electricity.
What is a reliability issue associated with hydro-electric power?
Reliability issues occur during times of drought.
What are the cost implications of hydro-electric power?
Initial costs are high, but there are no fuel costs and minimal running costs.
In what situations can hydro-electric power be useful?
It can generate electricity on a small scale in remote areas.
What is the main component of wave power generation?
Lots of small wave-powered turbines located around the coast.
What are the main problems associated with wave power?
Disturbing the seabed, spoiling the view, being a hazard to boats.
How reliable is wave power?
Wave power is fairly unreliable since waves tend to die out when the wind drops.
What are the cost implications of wave power?
Initial costs are high, but there are no fuel costs and minimal running costs.
In what context is wave power likely to be useful?
It can be very useful on small islands.
What is the primary method of generating electricity from tides?
Building a tidal barrage.
How do tidal barrages function?
They are big dams built across river estuaries with turbines. Water fills the estuary as the tide comes in.
What natural phenomenon causes tides?
The gravitational pull of the Sun and Moon.
What are the main problems associated with tidal barrages?
Preventing free access by boats, spoiling the view, altering wildlife habitats.
How reliable are tides for energy generation?
Tides are reliable, happening twice a day and always near to the predicted height.
What is a drawback of tidal energy generation?
The height of the tide is variable, with lower neap tides providing significantly less energy.
What are the cost implications of tidal barrages?
Initial costs are moderately high, but there are no fuel costs and minimal running costs.
What is the potential of tidal power?
It has the potential for generating a significant amount of energy, despite being usable in only some estuaries.
