Energy and Geography Basics

Latitude and Longitude

• Definition: Latitude and longitude are used to locate points on the Earth's surface.
• Latitude:
  • Measures distance north or south of the equator (0° to 90°)
  • Lines of latitude are parallel to the equator
• Longitude:
  • Measures distance east or west of the prime meridian (0° to 180°)
  • Lines of longitude converge at the poles

Fossil Fuels

• Definition: Non-renewable energy sources formed from ancient plants and animals.
• Types:
  • Coal: Formed from plant remains, used for electricity generation and industrial processes.
  • Oil: Formed from marine organisms, used for transportation and industrial processes.
  • Natural Gas: Formed from plant and animal remains, used for electricity generation and heating.

Wind Energy

• Definition: Renewable energy harnessed from wind using turbines.
• Advantages:
  • Abundant resource
  • Zero emissions
  • Low operating costs
• Limitations:
  • Intermittent energy source
  • Visual impact of turbines

Solar Power

• Definition: Renewable energy harnessed from sunlight using photovoltaic cells.
• Advantages:
  • Abundant resource
  • Zero emissions
  • Low maintenance
• Limitations:
  • Intermittent energy source
  • High upfront costs

Biomass Energy

• Definition: Renewable energy derived from organic matter (plants, waste).
• Sources:
  • Forestry residues
  • Agricultural waste
  • Municipal waste
• Conversion methods:
  • Combustion: Burning biomass to produce electricity or heat.
  • Anaerobic digestion: Converting biomass into biogas (CH4, CO2).

Geothermal Energy

• Definition: Renewable energy harnessed from Earth's internal heat.
• Sources:
  • Hot springs
  • Geysers
  • Magma
• Applications:
  • Electricity generation
  • Heating and cooling
  • Industrial processes