Methods We Use To Generate Electricity Flashcards
What are non-renewable energy sources?
They cannot be replaced within a lifetime and will eventually run out.
What are fossil fuels?
Energy sources such as coal, oil and gas which are formed over millions of years from the remains of plants and animals. They are used to produce most of the energy we use.
What are nuclear fuels?
Uranium and Plutonium
What energy sources are non-renewable?
Coal Oil Gas Uranium Plutonium
How is electricity generated in fossil fuel power stations?
Fossil fuels are burnt to release heat energy.
This boils water and produces steam.
The steam is used to drive turbines, which are attached to electrical generators.
What is a gas jet turbine generator?
It heats air instead of water giving it a quicker start-up.
How is electricity generated in a nuclear power station?
A reactor is used to generate heat by nuclear fission.
A heat exchanger is used to transfer the heat energy from the reactor to the water, which turns to steam and drives the turbines.
What are biofuels?
Living things such as wood and rapeseed oil which are burnt to release energy.
They are classed as renewable because the plants used grow relatively quickly.
Plant and animal waste form farming can also be used.
What are the advantages of non-renewable sources of energy?
Produce huge amounts of energy.
Reliable.
Flexible in meeting demand.
Do not take up as much space (relatively).
What are the disadvantages of non-renewable sources of energy?
Pollute the environment.
Cause global warming and acid rain.
Will eventually run out.
Fuels often have to be transported over long distances.
What are renewable energy sources?
Those that will not run out because they are continually being replaced.
What energy sources are renewable?
Wind Turbines Solar Cells and Panels Hydroelectric Dam Nodding Duck Geothermal
