Unconventional fossil fuel reserves Flashcards
(11 cards)
Name some examples of unconventional fossil fuels?
Tar sands, oil shale, deepwater oil and hydraulic fracturing
What is hydraulic fracturing?
Extracting natural gas from shale. High pressure fluid is pumped into rocks causing it to crack and release gas which is then collected
Why is hydraulic fracturing controversial?
It may cause environmental issues such as groundwater contamination
How many fracking wells did the US create?
1.7 million fracking wells
How is oil shale extracted?
It is extracted by putting the rock under pressure and heating it
What are tar sands?
A mixture of clay, sand, water and bitumen
How are tar sands extracted?
They have to be mined and then injected with steam to make tar less viscous so it can be extracted
What are the limitations of unconventional fossil fuel reserves?
They are all fossil fuels so will continue to threaten the carbon cycle and contribute to global warming
What is a limitation in the extraction of unconventional fossil fuel reserves?
Extraction is expensive and requires expensive technology, water and energy
Are unconventional fossil fuel reserves environmentally friendly?
No they all threaten environmental damage due to the pollution of water, oil spills and land subsidence
What potential social benefits are there of unconventional fossil fuel reserves?
Energy companies may invest into local infrastructure
