Geothermal Energy Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is geothermal energy?

Heat energy from the Earth's interior (correct)

Energy generated from wind turbines

Energy derived from solar panels

Energy produced by burning fossil fuels

What is the first step in the process of generating electricity from geothermal energy?

Turning steam into electricity via a turbine

Pumping cooled water back into the earth

Drilling wells to access steam or hot water (correct)

Cooling the steam

How does steam contribute to electricity production in geothermal power plants?

Steam cools down other fluids in the system.

Steam spins a turbine connected to a generator. (correct)

Steam is used to heat water.

Steam directly generates electrical current.

What is one significant advantage of using geothermal energy?

It produces no waste or emissions. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common disadvantage of geothermal energy?

It is subject to geological limitations. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What happens in the cooling tower during geothermal energy production?

The steam condenses back into water. (B) Signup and view all the answers

In which location is geothermal energy most commonly harnessed?

Areas with volcanic activity (B) Signup and view all the answers

What role does pressure drop play in geothermal energy production?

It converts water into steam. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary way that geothermal energy generates electricity?

By heating water into steam to turn turbines (B) Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of the Philippines' total power generation comes from geothermal energy?

14.4% (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the source of geothermal energy?

It originates from the melted magma beneath the Earth's crust. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the disadvantages of using geothermal energy?

The initial installation costs can be high. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Where does the heat used in geothermal energy production primarily come from?

Rock formations that trap hot water beneath the surface (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which country ranks second in the world for geothermal energy production?

Philippines (D) Signup and view all the answers

How does the cost of electricity production from geothermal energy compare to other sources?

It is cheaper than the production of electricity from coal. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What process occurs when heat from within the Earth warms water for geothermal energy?

Evaporation (C) Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Geothermal Energy

Geothermal energy is derived from the heat stored within the Earth, originating from melted magma
It can be harnessed to generate electricity using steam or hot water
Geothermal power plants are located in areas with high geothermal activity, near volcanoes, geysers, or hot springs
In the Philippines, geothermal plants are found in areas such as Tiwi, Albay, and Mak-Ban, Laguna

Geothermal Energy Generation

Wells are drilled deep into the Earth to extract steam or hot water
The steam or hot water is brought to the surface
The pressure drop at the surface converts the water to steam
The steam spins a turbine connected to a generator, which produces electricity
The cooled water is re-injected back into the Earth to maintain the cycle

Geothermal Energy Advantages

Renewable energy source. The water is replenished by rainfall. The heat is continuously produced by the Earth
Lower carbon footprint compared to fossil fuels. Minimal pollution associated

Geothermal Energy Disadvantages

High initial cost of setting up geothermal plants. High cost of production process and facilities.
Potential environmental hazards associated with the release of gases. Possible volcanic eruptions near plants and their impact

Geothermal Power Plants in Philippines

Examples of geothermal plants mentioned are Tiwi Geothermal Plant in Tiwi, Albay and Mak-Ban (Makiling-Banahaw), located in Calauan, Laguna
The Philippines ranks second in the world in geothermal energy production (14.4% of national power generation) – making it cheaper than national counterparts using other sources.

Key Terms

Geo - Earth
Therme - Heat
Generator - Device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy
Turbine - Device that converts fluid energy (steam, water) into mechanical energy that drives a generator
Magma - Molten rock beneath the Earth's surface.

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Description

Explore the fundamentals of geothermal energy, its generation process, and advantages. Learn how geothermal power plants operate and where they are located, especially in the context of the Philippines. Understand the significance of this renewable energy source in reducing carbon footprints.