Energy Basics
What does the R/P ratio stand for?
reserves-to-production ratio
This renewable energy source uses sunlight to generate power.
solar energy
Which energy source produces radioactive waste?
nuclear energy
Which fossil fuel recently became Canada’s top energy source?
natural gas
What does hydraulic fracturing more commonly refer to?
fracking
This type of energy source is formed from ancient organic matter over millions of years.
fossil fuels
Which energy source involves converting falling water into electricity?
hydropower
What is one environmental downside of hydropower?
disrupting aquatic ecosystems
Canada is one of the world’s top producers and exporters of what two fossil fuels?
oil and natural gas
What is one advantage of solar energy?
low operating costs or availability
Which non-renewable energy resource has an R/P ratio of around 53 years?
natural gas
This method uses wind to generate electricity.
wind energy
What is a major concern of wind energy in terms of wildlife?
Harm to birds and bats?
What physical region is home to most of Canada's oil and gas reserves?
the Western Sedimentary Basin (or Alberta)
What is one disadvantage of nuclear energy?
high cost or radioactive waste?
Name one reason fossil fuels are used so much in Canada.
Canada’s large fossil fuel reserves
Which method splits atoms to produce energy?
nuclear energy
Which energy source is often referred to as dirty oil?
Alberta Oil Sands
Name one reason Canadians use more energy per capita than many other countries.
cold climate / transportation / energy-intensive industries?
What does a base-load energy source provide?
consistent and reliable power supply
What does a high R/P ratio indicate?
longer estimated resource lifespan
This energy method burns fossil fuels like coal or natural gas to create heat and generate electricity.
thermal energy
Why is fracking controversial?
the risk of ground instability and environmental damage.
Name one way Canada can reduce its energy consumption.
using public transport, energy-efficient tech, or educating people about conservation
Which energy source offers the most benefits with the least environmental impact, according to your research?
solar energy