Unit 6.4 - Distribution of Natural Energy Resources

Question 1

Fossil Fuel Enery Reserves

Answer 1

Coal - around 100-150 years:
1. USA
2. Russia
3. China
4. Australia
Natural Gas - around 50-60 years
1. Russia
2. Iran
3. Qatar
4. USA
5. Saudi Arabia
Oil - around 50 years
1. Venezuela
2. Saudi Arabia
3. Iran
4. Canada
5. Iraq

Question 2

Fracking and Shale Gas

Answer 2

Hydraulic fracking (aka fracking)is a methos of natural gas extraction that has extended access to natural gas
- Gas trapped in semi-permeable, sedimentary rock layers, such as shae, is released by cracking the rock with pressurized water
- fracking antural gas from shale rock increases adn extends supply of natural gas

Question 3

Shale Gas Reserves

Answer 3

• Fossil Fuels are non-renewable, andwill eventually be depleated, but short-term economic profit still drives extraction and use
• discovered bu unharvested reserves represent economic benefit to countries

Question 4

Tar/Oil Sands

Answer 4

• tar or oil sands are bitumen deposits where crude oil can be recovered, but with higher water and energy inputs
• Canada (alberta region) = worlds largest oil sands reserve
• just like fracking, tar/oil sands extraction extends the worlds supply of crude oil