Energy Resources

What are Fossil Fuels? Fossil Fuels are energy rich substances formed from the remains of once living organisms. The 3 main fossil fuels are: – Oil (Petroleum) – Natural Gas – Coal

Coal Coal is a solid fossil fuel formed from plant remains. People have burned coal to produce heat. Advantages: – Coal is the most plentiful fossil fuel, it is fairly easy to transport, and provides a lot of energy when burned. Disadvantages: – Coal mining can increase erosion, runoff from mines can cause water pollution, and burning most types of coal results in air pollution.

Petroleum Oil Advantages: – Cheap and plentiful Disadvantages: – Oil spills cause harm to ecosystems

Renewable Vs. Nonrenewable Resources Renewable = A resource that is naturally replaced in a short amount of time; constantly being supplied. – Examples: Solar Wind Water Nonrenewable = A natural resource that is not replaced as it is used. – Examples: Natural Gas Oil & Petroleum Coal

Biomass Fuels Is a form of energy produced from plant materials. Biomass can be renewed over a short period of time. Examples: – Corn – Sugar cane

Wind Wind can be used to turn a turbine and generate electricity. Wind needs to blow steadily enough to be a good energy source. It is a cleaner source of energy

Solar Energy Advantage: – Does not cause pollution Disadvantage: – It depends on the availability of sunlight.

Geothermal Energy Geothermal energy uses the heat of the earth to make electricity.

Water Disadvantages: – If a river is dammed it could affect the ecosystem in the area.

Nuclear Energy released from atomic reactions.