Geothermal Energy Pros and Cons Flashcards

Advantages of Geothermal Energy

• Eco-friendly: Produces low greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels.
• High reliability: Provides a stable and continuous energy supply, unaffected by weather conditions.
• Flexibility: Can be used for various applications, including electricity generation and direct heating.
• Minimum land space: Requires less land compared to solar and wind energy installations.
• Cost effective: Low operational costs after the initial investment, leading to long-term savings.
• Helps developing countries grow: Offers a sustainable energy source that can support rural electrification and economic development.

Disadvantages of Geothermal Energy

• Limited accessibility: Geothermal resources are often geographically restricted to certain areas, making it less available in some regions.
• Financial constraint: High upfront costs for drilling and plant construction can deter investment.
• Possible pollution: Risk of releasing harmful substances and greenhouse gases during resource extraction and utilization.

Impacts and Threats

• Rising temperature: Global temperature increases contribute to climate change and ecosystem disruption.
• Shrinking ice sheets: Melting polar ice caps lead to loss of habitat and rising sea levels.
• Sea level rise: Threatens coastal communities and ecosystems due to land inundation.
• Biodiversity depletion: Habitat destruction and climate change risk extinction of various species.
• Ocean acidification: Increased carbon dioxide levels harm marine life and ecosystems.
• Extreme weather: Rising temperatures lead to increased frequency and severity of weather events.

Greenhouse Gases

• Water vapor: The most abundant greenhouse gas, plays a crucial role in the natural greenhouse effect.
• Carbon dioxide: Major contributor to climate change, largely produced by burning fossil fuels.
• Methane: A potent greenhouse gas with a higher short-term warming potential than carbon dioxide.
• Nitrous oxide: Released from agricultural and industrial activities, it has a significant warming impact.
• Chlorofluorocarbons: Synthetic compounds that deplete the ozone layer and contribute to global warming.

Explore the advantages and disadvantages of geothermal energy through this flashcard quiz. Learn about its eco-friendliness, reliability, and financial aspects, as well as the potential threats and accessibility issues associated with this energy source.