Energy Resources

What is an energy resource? Something in nature that provides us with energy. All energy resources are either nonrenewable or renewable. Nonrenewable resources- An energy resource that can not be replaced as quickly as it is used. Renewable resources- Energy resources that can be replaced quickly or reused again.

Nonrenewable Energy Sources: Fossil fuels Fossil Fuels- Energy rich substances formed from the remains of dead plant and animal materials. Examples Coal Oil Natural Gas

Nonrenewable Energy Sources: COAL Coal is a solid fossil fuel. Coal is the most plentiful fossil fuel in the United States. Coal is responsible for most US electricity. Coal is easy to transport. Coal can cause more air pollution than other fossil fuels. Coal can be difficult or dangerous to mine.

Non-renewable Energy Sources: OIL Oil or Petroleum Oil is a liquid fossil fuel. Most oil is located in deposits deep below the earth’s surface. Oil is used to make many products like plastics, waxes, asphalt, gasoline, etc. The US has only 3% of the worlds oil reserves, but uses 1/3 of the world’s oil!!

Non-renewable Energy Sources: NATURAL GAS Natural gas is a gaseous fossil fuel. Natural gas is collected in tanks and can be transported easily in pipes. Natural gas produces lower levels of pollution than coal or oil. Natural gas is highly flammable.

Non-renewable Energy Sources: Nuclear Energy Nuclear Energy- Energy released when the nucleus of a uranium atom is split.

Nuclear Energy Uranium Uranium is a large atom with an unstable nucleus. Uranium is the atom we use for nuclear fission.

Nonrenewable Energy Sources Nuclear Energy Nuclear power is used to change water into steam. The steam turns a turbine to generate electricity. Nuclear energy pollutes the air less than fossil fuels. The danger of a nuclear meltdown is a serious concern. Disposal of nuclear waste is also serious issue.

Renewable Energy Resources Solar Wind Biomass Hydroelectric Geothermal

Renewable Energy Resources Solar Solar energy Energy captured from the sun. Solar energy can be converted into electricity using solar cells. Solar energy can only be captured during daylight hours.

Renewable Energy Resources Wind Wind energy Energy generated from moving air. Wind can be used to turn a turbine and generate electricity. Wind energy is not ideal for all locations.

Renewable Energy Resources Hydroelectric Hydroelectric energy Electricity is created from moving water. Hydroelectric power often requires the use of a dam. Building dams can affect local environments.

Renewable Energy Resources Biomass fuels Energy sources made from things that were once alive. Examples include: Ethanol, plants, trees, wood, manure, switch grass, algae, etc.

Renewable Energy Resources Geothermal Geothermal Energy Energy from heat inside the earth. Geothermal energy can only be used in places where magma comes close to the earth’s surface. Geothermal energy is an unlimited source of cheap energy.

Worldwide Energy Use

Energy Quiz Take the quiz and see how you do: Energy Quiz

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