Solar Energy
What star provides most renewable energy on Earth?
The sun
What causes wind?
Uneven heating of Earth's surface by the sun
What is biomass fuel?
Organic matter used as fuel
What is geothermal energy?
Heat from Earth's crust
What does energy conservation mean?
Saving energy
What is a passive solar heating?
Using sunlight directly to heat a bulding.
What do wind turbines produce?
Electricity
What is hydroelectric energy?
Electricity made from moving water
What does OTEC stand for?
Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion
Give one example of conserving energy.
Turning off lights / biking / carpooling
What do photovoltaic cells make?
Electricity from sunlight
What are large groups of turbines called?
Wind farms
What gas forms when waste decomposes?
Methane
What fuel combines with oxygen in a fuel cell?
Hydrogen
What is energy efficiency?
Percent of energy that does useful work
Why do passive solar homes need thick walls/floors?
To store heat and reduce heat loss.
Why are windly rural areas good for turbines?
Strong winds and open land
One disadvantage of large dams?
Flooded habitats / displaced people / blocked fish migration
Why is hydrogen called a future fuel?
It produces water when used and less pollution
Why are hybrid cars efficient?
They use gasoline + electric motors and recover braking energy
Why don't solar cells supply all energy needs today?
Need lots of space, sunshine and batteries.
Why is wind power growing quickly?
Lower costs and efficient turbines
Why can biomass be harmful if overused?
Deforestation, erosion, air pollution
Why do geothermal heat pumps work year-round?
Ground temperature stays fairly constant
Why is conservation important?
Saves money, reduces pollution, preserves resources