Hydrosphere Notes Part 11-Energy

Describe the difference between renewable and nonrenewable resources. Energy sources are considered nonrenewable if they cannot be replenished (made again) in a short period of time. They make up 92% of the energy in the U.S. Renewable energy sources such as solar and wind can be replenished naturally in a short period of time.

What is solar energy and how is it used? Renewable Solar energy is the sun’s rays (solar radiation) that reach the Earth. This energy can be converted into other forms of energy, such as heat and electricity.

What is wind energy and how is it used? Renewable Wind is air in motion It is mainly used to generate electricity

What is biomass energy and how is it used? Renewable Biomass is organic material made from plants and animals. Biomass contains stored energy from the sun. Examples include wood, crops, manure, and some garbage. Wood waste or garbage can be burned to produce steam for making electricity, or to provide heat to industries and homes. Biomass can be converted to methane gas or transportation fuels, such as ethanol and biodiesel.

What is water energy and how is it used? Renewable Hydro energy is simply energy that is taken from water and converted to electricity.

Other forms of water energy

What is geothermal energy and how is it used? Renewable Heat from within the Earth. We can recover this heat as steam or hot water and use it to heat buildings or generate electricity.

What is nuclear energy and how is it used? Nonrenewable Nuclear energy is energy in the nucleus (core) of an atom. In nuclear fission, atoms are split apart to form smaller atoms, releasing energy. Nuclear power plants use this energy to produce electricity.

What is fossil fuel energy and how is it used? Nonrenewable Coal, oil and gas are called "fossil fuels" because they have been formed from the organic remains of prehistoric plants and animals. Coal is crushed to a fine dust and burnt. Oil and gas can be burnt directly. It accounts for nearly two-thirds of our electricity, and virtually all of our transportation fuels.