Chapter 5 Lesson 2 Renewable Energy Resources Ms. Diana

Solar Energy Solar Energy – energy from the Sun. Solar cells capture light energy and transform it to electrical energy. Solar power plants can generate electricity for large areas. Two types of solar energy: Active Solar Energy – uses technology (solar panels) that collect and store energy to heat water and homes. Passive Solar Energy – uses design elements that capture energy in sunlight. (windows)

Wind Energy Wind Energy – energy from the wind Wind energy has been used since ancient times to sail boats and to turn windmills. Wind turbines – used to produce electricity for large areas. Wind farm – a group of wind turbines that produce electricity.

Water Energy Hydroelectric Power – electricity that is made by flowing water. To make hydroelectric power, humans have to build dams across rivers.

Geothermal Energy Geothermal Energy – thermal energy from the inside of the Earth. It can be used to heat homes, and generate electricity in power plants. The thermal energy heats water which is then turned into steam. The steam turns the turbines that are connected to generators that make electricity.

Biomass Energy Biomass Energy – energy produced by burning organic matter such as wood, food scraps, and alcohol. Wood is the most widely used biomass. Biomass can be converted into fuels for cars. Ethanol (type of alcohol) is made from sugars in plants, such as corn. Ethanol is added to gasoline because it reduces pollution. Biodiesel – fuel made from vegetable oil and fat. It also reduces pollution.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Renewable Resources

Managing Renewable Energy Resources

Questions