Sustainability
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Questions and Answers

Two-way tidal power systems generate electricity when water enters and leaves the ______.

basin

Tidal turbines are much like underwater wind ______.

turbines

The process of converting the energy of falling water into electricity is known as ______ generation.

hydropower

Tidal fences utilize vertical axis turbines mounted in a row on the ______.

<p>seafloor</p> Signup and view all the answers

Marine energy is often referred to as ocean energy or ocean ______ energy.

<p>wave</p> Signup and view all the answers

Ocean thermal energy conversion relies on the difference in ______ between surface water and deep water.

<p>temperature</p> Signup and view all the answers

Equipment used to harness marine energy does not release any emissions or ______ pollution.

<p>noise</p> Signup and view all the answers

Geothermal energy is harnessing the earth's natural ______.

<p>heat</p> Signup and view all the answers

The oscillating water column captures air and forces it through an opening connected to a ______ to generate power.

<p>turbine</p> Signup and view all the answers

The water used in ocean thermal energy conversion must have a difference of at least ______ degrees Fahrenheit.

<p>77</p> Signup and view all the answers

Tidal turbines must be stronger and ______ than wind turbines due to the density of water.

<p>heavier</p> Signup and view all the answers

Point absorbers, attenuators, and terminators are types of ______ energy technologies.

<p>marine</p> Signup and view all the answers

The vapor pressure in ocean thermal energy conversion drives the ______ connected to a generator.

<p>turbine</p> Signup and view all the answers

Attenuators are long structures that are oriented parallel to the direction of the ______.

<p>waves</p> Signup and view all the answers

The process of turning the rotation of a turbine into electricity involves a series of magnets and copper ______.

<p>coils</p> Signup and view all the answers

Geothermal energy currently creates about ______% of the energy produced in the United States.

<p>0.4</p> Signup and view all the answers

As of the end of 2016, no tidal ______ projects are currently operating.

<p>fence</p> Signup and view all the answers

Marine energy is most economical to utilize in places with the biggest waves and ______.

<p>tides</p> Signup and view all the answers

The segments of wave energy devices are connected to hydraulic pumps or other converters to generate ______ as the waves move across.

<p>power</p> Signup and view all the answers

A point absorber is a floating structure that uses the wave action to drive electromechanical or hydraulic energy ______.

<p>converters</p> Signup and view all the answers

Overtopping devices operate similarly to a ______ by creating a buildup of water pressure to produce energy.

<p>dam</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the United States, the only method used to harness tidal energy is the tidal ______, which is currently located in New York.

<p>turbine</p> Signup and view all the answers

The ______ is a structure installed at the opening of a bay or lagoon to control water levels for tidal energy generation.

<p>barrage</p> Signup and view all the answers

The relative up and down bobbing motion of point absorbers is utilized for energy ______ from waves.

<p>conversion</p> Signup and view all the answers

Floating platforms can create electricity by funneling waves through internal ______ and back into the sea.

<p>turbines</p> Signup and view all the answers

A transformer in the nose of the unit steps up the power-to-line voltage for ______ to shore.

<p>transmission</p> Signup and view all the answers

Tidal ______ consists of barriers with gates that control the flow of water to generate electricity.

<p>barrages</p> Signup and view all the answers

The oldest operating tidal power plant is located in ______, France.

<p>La Rance</p> Signup and view all the answers

Marine energy technologies harness the power of ______ to generate electricity.

<p>ocean</p> Signup and view all the answers

Wave energy converters are devices that transform the movement of ______ into usable energy.

<p>waves</p> Signup and view all the answers

The process of converting mechanical energy from waves into ______ energy is crucial for marine energy systems.

<p>electrical</p> Signup and view all the answers

Hydropower generation utilizes the flow of ______ to produce energy.

<p>water</p> Signup and view all the answers

The environmental impact of marine energy can be less disruptive than that of traditional fossil ______.

<p>fuels</p> Signup and view all the answers

Innovative marine energy technologies contribute to the transition from fossil fuels to ______ energy sources.

<p>renewable</p> Signup and view all the answers

Tidal energy is a form of marine energy that relies on the rise and fall of ______.

<p>tides</p> Signup and view all the answers

The integration of marine energy into the energy grid can help reduce reliance on ______ energy.

<p>nonrenewable</p> Signup and view all the answers

Marine energy technologies include various systems, such as wave energy converters and ______ systems.

<p>tidal</p> Signup and view all the answers

Hydropower accounts for nearly ______% of total U.S. utility-scale renewable electricity generation.

<p>27</p> Signup and view all the answers

The ______-axis wind turbine is more efficient and commonly used in the United States.

<p>horizontal</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Savonius model of vertical-axis wind turbine uses ______ shaped blades to catch the wind.

<p>scoop</p> Signup and view all the answers

Vertical-axis turbines can catch wind from any ______ unlike horizontal-axis turbines.

<p>direction</p> Signup and view all the answers

______ energy converters are devices that harness the kinetic energy of waves to generate electricity.

<p>Wave</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the types of solar panels with their characteristics:

<p>Monocrystalline = High efficiency (21.5%) and performs well in low light Polycrystalline = Blue tint and efficiency of 13%-16% Thin-Film = Made from cadmium telluride, amorphous silicon Organic photovoltaic cells = Known for being easier to manufacture</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following solar panel types with their material compositions:

<p>Monocrystalline = Silicon with rounded corners Polycrystalline = Melted silicon cut into squares Thin-Film = Cadmium telluride and copper indium gallium selenide Organic photovoltaic cells = Not silicon-based</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the efficiency ratings to the type of solar panel:

<p>Monocrystalline = 21.5% Polycrystalline = 13%-16% Thin-Film = 15%-16% Organic photovoltaic cells = Efficiency varies</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following solar panels with their manufacturing processes:

<p>Monocrystalline = Silicon cut into thin slices Polycrystalline = Silicon melted and shaped into squares Thin-Film = Spread in a thin layer over substrate Organic photovoltaic cells = Constructed from various cadmium and copper compounds</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the benefits with the respective type of solar panel:

<p>Monocrystalline = Maximum efficiency and low light performance Polycrystalline = Less waste during manufacturing Thin-Film = Easier to manufacture Organic photovoltaic cells = Flexible applications and lighter weight</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following solar panels with their visual characteristics:

<p>Monocrystalline = Distinct rounded corner slices Polycrystalline = Blue tint due to anti-reflective coating Thin-Film = Generally appears as a uniform thin layer Organic photovoltaic cells = Flexible and potentially colorful</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the famous solar projects with their specifications:

<p>Kamuthi Solar Power Project = Largest solar park in the world Waldpolenz Solar Park = Largest thin-film photovoltaic power station Flat 200 Watt Monocrystalline = Specific product example Josh n Ka Polycrystalline = Specific product example</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the types of solar panels to their environmental impact:

<p>Monocrystalline = High efficiency leads to lower land use Polycrystalline = Moderate environmental footprint Thin-Film = Lower efficiency often leads to larger installations Organic photovoltaic cells = Potentially lower carbon footprint due to simpler manufacturing</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms related to ethanol production with their definitions:

<p>Corn-based ethanol = Ethanol produced primarily from corn feedstock Ethanol plants = Facilities where ethanol is manufactured from biomass Biofuels = Renewable fuels produced from biological sources Renewable Fuels Standard = Legislation requiring a certain volume of biofuels to be produced</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following statistics with their corresponding values from the U.S. ethanol industry:

<p>2015 ethanol production = 14.8 billion gallons Total U.S. ethanol capacity = 15.6 billion gallons Corn harvest in 2015 = 11.86 billion bushels Percentage of corn used for ethanol = 44 percent</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following effects of increasing corn-based ethanol production with their consequences:

<p>Increased food prices = Due to competition for land between food and energy crops Water supply strain = Attributed to increased corn farming activities Natural gas demand = Rising due to fertilizer-intensive corn growth Subsidy expiration = Increased reliance on market economics for ethanol</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following countries with their primary ethanol production sources:

<p>United States = Corn Brazil = Sugarcane Ethanol subsidy = 45 cents per gallon prior to 2011 Ethanol import tariff = 54 cents per gallon before expiration</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following challenges associated with ethanol production with their descriptions:

<p>Agricultural pressure = Increased demand for corn affects food supply Environmental costs = Corn refining requires substantial energy Economic dependency = Ethanol production's reliance on federal incentives Crop displacement = Food cropland repurposed for biofuel production</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following solar panel types with their characteristics:

<p>Multijunction Photovoltaic Cells = Use multiple layers for efficiency Dye-Sensitive Photovoltaic Cells = Utilize a gel electrolyte 3D Photovoltaic Cells = Developed for enhanced light absorption Thin-Film Solar Panels = Lightweight and flexible design</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following wind farm statistics with their details:

<p>Alta Wind Energy Center = Third largest wind farm in the world Gansu Wind Farm = Largest wind farm in China Wind power in the US (2022) = Provides 10.3% of electricity Number of turbines for a wind farm = Only requires two turbines</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following negative impacts of wind and solar power with their details:

<p>Wind turbines = Cause around 573,000 bird deaths yearly Solar panels = Involved in approximately 3,500 bird deaths yearly Wind farms = Can cause noise pollution Solar installations = Less aesthetic appeal compared to wind turbines</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following concepts with their definitions in wind energy:

<p>Wind turbines = Convert wind energy into electrical current Wind farms = Areas with multiple turbines Emission-free energy = No pollutants released during energy generation Utility-scale electricity = High-volume power production for large grids</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following components of wind turbines with their functions:

<p>Blades = Capture wind energy Rotors = Convert rotational energy Generator = Transforms mechanical energy into electricity Nacelle = Houses the turbine's components</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the terms with their corresponding technologies:

<p>Photovoltaic Cells = Convert sunlight to electricity Windmills = Historical devices used for milling Wind turbines = Modern generation of wind power Hydraulic pumps = Used in energy converters for waves</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following features of renewable energy with their benefits:

<p>Solar panels = Lower environmental impact compared to fossil fuels Wind energy = Emissions-free energy source Geothermal energy = Utilizes the earth's natural heat Marine energy = Harnesses ocean power for sustainability</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following places with their significance in energy production:

<p>California = Home to Alta Wind Energy Center China = Location of Gansu Wind Farm United States = 10.3% of power from wind as of 2022 France = Site of the oldest operating tidal power plant</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following types of renewable technologies with their descriptions:

<p>Point absorbers = Floating structures converting wave motion Attenuators = Devices aligned with wave direction Overtopping devices = Utilize water pressure buildup Tidal fences = Systems controlling water flow for energy generation</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following renewable technologies with their forms of energy:

<p>Hydropower = Produced from flowing water Solar energy = Harnesses sunlight Wind energy = Generated from moving air Marine energy = Utilizes oceanic forces</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms related to wind energy policy with their descriptions:

<p>Production Tax Credit (PTC) = A federal incentive for wind energy projects American Taxpayer Relief Act = Legislation extending PTC through 2013 Internal Revenue Service (IRS) = Government body that sets tax credit rates Renewable Portfolio Standards = State requirements for renewable energy generation</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following years with significant events in wind energy legislation:

<p>1992 = Introduction of the original PTC 2013 = PTC extended with new construction requirements 2015 = Congress retroactively extended PTC for that year 2014 = PTC extension through the year before 2015</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following credits with their amounts per kilowatt hour for wind energy:

<p>2.2 cents = Original PTC rate 2.3 cents = Rate increased by IRS 80 percent = PTC value phase down in 2017 60 percent = PTC value phase down in 2018</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following types of wind energy projects with their cost characteristics:

<p>Onshore wind = Least expensive renewable technology Offshore wind = More than 2.5 times more expensive than onshore Wind turbine density = Measure of wind turbines distributed across the U.S. Wind farm proposals = Plans for offshore installations in specific regions</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following descriptions related to wind project construction with specific rules:

<p>Construction beginning date = Essential for PTC qualification Electricity generation duration = First 10 years of operation Tax credit phase down = Decreases from 2017 to 2019 State standards = Mandates on renewable energy generation percentage</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following acts with their purposes regarding wind energy:

<p>Energy Policy Act = Introduced the original PTC Public Law No. 113-295 = Extended PTC through 2014 Omnibus Bill = Extended PTC for 5 additional years American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2013 = Specified new construction rules for PTC</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following incentives with their effects on wind energy development:

<p>Production Tax Credit = Makes wind projects financially viable Renewable Portfolio Standards = Encourages states to adopt renewable tech Increased tax credit = Attracts investment in wind energy Legislative extensions = Provide certainty for project developments</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following wind energy project types with their locations:

<p>Onshore wind farms = Built in various states across the U.S. Proposed offshore farms = Along the Atlantic coast and Great Lakes Wind turbine density maps = Illustrate distribution across the U.S. Remote wind projects = Installed in less populated areas</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following phases of the Production Tax Credit with their timeframes:

<p>2017 = PTC phased down to 80% 2018 = PTC phased down to 60% 2019 = PTC phased down to 40% 2016 = PTC maintained at 2.3 cents</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following groups or organizations with their roles regarding wind energy:

<p>Institute for Energy Research = Attributes growth to government policies Energy Information Administration = Provides cost comparisons for wind energy Congress = Decides on extension of PTC Internal Revenue Service = Administers tax relief for energy projects</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following types of biomass with their description:

<p>Solid biomass = Also known as feedstock Liquid biomass = Commonly used for biofuels Gas biomass = Can be produced through fermentation Primary products = Created directly from solar energy</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following biomass sources with their examples:

<p>Agricultural crops = Corn grain for ethanol Organic waste = Animal manure Wood/wood waste = Used for heat and power Biodegradable materials = Compost and garbage</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following advantages of biomass with their explanations:

<p>Easier to replace = Does not require millions of years to form Renewable energy source = Can be replenished quickly Carbon neutrality = Crops absorb CO2 during growth Utilization of waste = Transforming waste into usable energy</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following biomass technologies with their emissions control measures:

<p>Pollution control = Advanced methods to reduce emissions Combustion engineering = Optimize burning efficiency Industrial facilities = Emit less than fossil fuels New technologies = Aim to minimize air pollution</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following categories of biomass with their definitions:

<p>Primary products = Produced through direct photosynthesis Secondary products = Generated by decomposition or conversion Solid biomass = Biomass in a solid state Liquid biomass = Biomass in a fluid state, used in energy</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following characteristics of biomass energy with their implications:

<p>Weaker energy than fossil fuels = Requires larger quantities for same output Air pollution = Can contribute to health concerns Inefficiency of open burning = Most heat energy is lost Community regulations = Bans on traditional wood burning</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms about biomass with their interactions with the environment:

<p>Photosynthesis = Captures and uses solar energy Carbon dioxide emissions = Used by crops in growth Organic matter = Similar to fossil fuels in composition Nutrient absorption = Plants take nutrients from the soil</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following statistics with their significance regarding biomass use:

<p>342 million tons = Current U.S. biomass usage 5% = Percentage of America's annual energy demand met by biomass Photosynthesis efficiency = Energy capture from the sun Waste product utilization = Converting trash into energy</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following forms of biomass with their energy output characteristics:

<p>Solid biomass = Often less efficient than liquids Liquid biomass = Higher energy density for fuels Gas biomass = Flexible and can be used in various applications All forms = Can contribute to energy diversification</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key requirement for solar panels to effectively direct the flow of electrons?

<p>Magnetic field</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of solar panel has an efficiency rating of 21.5%?

<p>Monocrystalline panels</p> Signup and view all the answers

What element is primarily used in thin-film solar panels?

<p>Cadmium telluride</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do polycrystalline solar panels differ from monocrystalline panels in appearance?

<p>They often have a blue tint.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What advantage do monocrystalline solar panels have in low light conditions?

<p>Better performance</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of solar panel is known for its easier manufacturing process?

<p>Thin-film panels</p> Signup and view all the answers

What method is used in producing polycrystalline solar panels?

<p>Melting and cutting into squares</p> Signup and view all the answers

What efficiency percentage is typical for thin-film solar panels?

<p>15%-16%</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for the growth of U.S. corn ethanol as a transportation fuel?

<p>Government programs mandate its use</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of feedstock is primarily used in biodiesel production?

<p>Soybean oil</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best explains the debate surrounding nuclear energy as a renewable energy source?

<p>Uranium is not considered a sustainable resource.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What significant development occurred on September 3, 2014, related to cellulosic ethanol production?

<p>The grand opening of a cellulosic ethanol plant in Iowa.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the environmental advantages of biodiesel compared to traditional diesel fuel?

<p>It is biodegradable and non-toxic.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does the turbine play in the energy generation process described?

<p>It converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which marine energy device is designed to capture the power of waves by extending perpendicular to their direction?

<p>Terminator</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of energy does marine energy primarily draw from?

<p>Moving water</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a notable characteristic of marine energy technologies in terms of environmental impact?

<p>They often face criticism for visual pollution.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which areas is it most economically viable to utilize marine energy?

<p>Locations with the biggest waves and tides</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which marine energy equipment extracts energy by riding the waves like a ship?

<p>Attenuator</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the transformer located in the nose of wave energy devices?

<p>To step up the power-to-line voltage for transmission</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which feature distinguishes the oscillating water column from other marine energy devices?

<p>It captures air above the water level.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What fundamental principle did Michael Faraday discover that is applied in the energy generation process?

<p>Electromagnetic induction</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which mechanism do overtopping devices utilize to generate power?

<p>The gravitational force of falling water</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of energy converter is primarily used by point absorbers?

<p>Electromechanical or hydraulic energy converters</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common criticism faced by marine energy technologies?

<p>Visual or aesthetic pollution</p> Signup and view all the answers

What do tidal barrages control to harness tidal energy effectively?

<p>The water level and flow rates</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the current state of marine energy in the United States?

<p>Marine energy technologies are continuously developed but limited in use.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Where does the energy generated by wave energy devices primarily get transmitted?

<p>Down an umbilical cable to a junction box in the seabed</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which is the only method currently utilized in the United States to harness tidal energy?

<p>Tidal turbines</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do floating platforms generate electricity from ocean waves?

<p>By funneling waves through internal turbines</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes the operation of tidal turbines in comparison to other tidal energy methods?

<p>They function similarly to underwater wind turbines</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main advantage of using a tidal barrage?

<p>It allows for controlled water levels to optimize energy production</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does the rise and fall of wave height play in the function of point absorbers?

<p>It causes the up and down motion needed for energy conversion</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common characteristic of biomass energy compared to fossil fuels?

<p>Biomass energy can be easily replaced and made.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What form of energy does biomass typically take when converted?

<p>Solid, liquid, and gas forms.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which method is mentioned as a less efficient way of using biomass energy?

<p>Open burning of dead wood.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a disadvantage of burning biomass?

<p>It can result in significant air pollution.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does biomass energy relate to photosynthesis?

<p>Biomass captures energy from sunlight through photosynthesis.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which is true regarding the contribution of biomass to U.S. energy demand?

<p>Approximately 5% of U.S. annual energy demand is met by biomass.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of new technologies in biomass energy production?

<p>They reduce emissions from biomass to levels lower than fossil fuels.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are primary products of biomass?

<p>Materials produced directly through photosynthesis.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the efficiency of biomass energy production?

<p>Inefficiencies occur due to heat loss during biomass burning.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of a primary product of biomass?

<p>Ethanol from corn grain.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Hoover Dam and Energy Conversion

  • The Hoover Dam utilizes a turbine mechanism where falling water spins a turbine, converting kinetic energy into mechanical energy, which then generates electricity.
  • Michael Faraday discovered the principle of electromagnetic induction used in turbine mechanics in 1831.

Marine Energy

  • Marine energy is derived from ocean movements such as surface waves, tides, and underwater pressure, also referred to as ocean energy.
  • Effective marine energy generation occurs in regions with significant wave activity and tidal ranges.
  • The U.S. has limited operational marine energy projects, which continually evolve in technology.
  • Marine energy systems are emission-free, though criticized for aesthetic impacts.

Types of Marine Energy Devices

  • Terminator Devices: Capture wave energy by extending perpendicular to wave direction; can be onshore or floating.
  • Point Absorbers: Floating structures that convert vertical wave motion into energy using hydraulic or electromechanical systems.
  • Attenuators: Long devices aligned with wave direction to extract energy by flexing caused by waves.
  • Overtopping Devices: Use wave reservoirs to create water pressure, releasing it to turn turbines as water flows back to the ocean.

Tidal Energy Methods

  • Tidal Turbines: Similar to wind turbines but installed underwater; more efficient yet costlier due to denser water.
  • Tidal Fences: Comprise vertical axis turbines set on the seafloor, with no operational projects as of 2016.
  • Tidal Barrages: Control water levels and flow at bay openings, generating power through turbines as tides ebb and flow.

Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC)

  • OTEC capitalizes on temperature differences between warm surface water and cold deeper water to produce energy, primarily in tropical regions.
  • Requires at least a 77°F temperature difference; creates desalinated water as a byproduct.
  • Active OTEC sites exist, such as in Hawaii.

Geothermal Energy

  • Geothermal energy derives from Earth's internal heat, tapping either deep steam or shallow heat sources.
  • Accounts for approximately 0.4% of U.S. energy production and is gaining traction among sustainable sources.

Wind Energy

  • Two wind turbine types: horizontal-axis (more prevalent and efficient) and vertical-axis (better in variable wind conditions).
  • Horizontal-axis turbines are often favored, with heights reaching up to 20 stories and blades spanning 100 feet.
  • Vertical-axis turbines (developed by Georges Darrieus) utilize a perpendicular axis for varied wind direction and have notable designs such as the Savonius and Darrieus models.

Hydroelectric Power

  • Hydropower represents around 27% of the total U.S. utility-scale renewable electricity generation and 5.7% of total U.S. electricity generation.
  • Hydropower's mechanisms and capabilities position it as a significant player in sustainable energy portfolios.

Solar Power

  • Solar panels utilize photons to free electrons from atoms, generating electricity through photovoltaic cells.
  • Photovoltaic cells consist of various elements, creating positive and negative charges and a magnetic field to direct electron flow.
  • Common types of solar panels include:
    • Monocrystalline: High-purity silicon, cut into rounded slices, with an efficiency rating of 21.5% and better performance in low light conditions.
    • Polycrystalline: Made from melted silicon cut into squares, producing a blue appearance due to anti-reflective coating, with efficiency ranging from 13% to 16%.
    • Thin-Film: Composed of cadmium telluride, amorphous silicon, and copper indium gallium selenide, offering 15% to 16% efficiency and easier manufacturing. The largest thin-film station is Waldpolenz Solar Park in Germany.
  • New photovoltaic technologies in development include:
    • Multijunction Cells: Multiple layers for increased efficiency.
    • Dye-Sensitive Cells: Use gel electrolytes and microscopic dye molecules for energy conversion.

Wind Power

  • Wind power has historical roots beginning with windmills; modern wind turbines convert wind energy into electric current.
  • As of 2022, wind power accounts for 10.3% of utility-scale electricity generation in the U.S.
  • Wind turbines require specific wind speeds for efficiency; large wind farms are built where conditions are favorable, with a minimum of two turbines considered a farm.
  • Alta Wind Energy Center in California is the largest U.S. wind farm with 586 turbines; the Gansu Wind Farm in China holds the title of the largest globally with over 7,000 turbines.
  • Wind turbines result in approximately 573,000 bird and 888,000 bat fatalities annually, with solar panels accounting for about 3,500 bird deaths yearly.
  • Government incentives, such as tax credits, continue to promote wind energy development, with extensions passed through various legislation.
  • Renewable portfolio standards in over half the U.S. states require specific percentages of energy from renewable sources, aiding the growth of onshore wind energy.

Biomass

  • Biomass energy originates from biological materials, including plant matter and organic waste, contributing around 5% to U.S. annual energy needs.
  • Efficient biomass energy generation contrasts with traditional burning methods, which waste a significant portion of heat energy.
  • Biomass exists in solid, liquid, and gas forms, with primary products arising from direct solar energy use and secondary products from organic matter decomposition or conversion.
  • The U.S. is a leading producer of ethanol, particularly from corn, cultivating nearly 44% of the total corn harvest for biofuel production.
  • In 2015, U.S. ethanol plants produced 14.8 billion gallons, with ongoing expansion efforts aimed at meeting the Renewable Fuels Standard's targets.
  • Ethanol production from corn presents challenges, such as increased food prices due to competition for land previously used for food crops and straining water supplies in the Midwest.

Solar Energy

  • Solar panels harness photons to free electrons from atoms, creating electricity.
  • Composed of photovoltaic cells, solar panels generate a magnetic field to direct electron flow.
  • Types of solar panels:
    • Monocrystalline: Made from high purity silicon, maximum efficiency of 21.5%, effective in low light.
    • Polycrystalline: Silicon is melted and cut into squares, efficiency of 13%-16%, characterized by a blue tint.
    • Thin-Film: Composed of cadmium telluride or other materials, efficiency of 15%-16%, easier to produce.

Marine Energy

  • Marine energy, including tidal and wave power, harnesses energy from ocean movement.
  • Economically effective in areas with significant waves and tides; minimal implementation in the U.S.
  • Engages technologies like point absorbers, attenuators, overtopping devices, and terminators for energy extraction.
  • Tidal power methods include tidal barrages, tidal fences, and tidal turbines, with New York having operational tidal turbines.

Biomass Energy

  • Biomass energy comes from organic materials, including agricultural products and biodegradable waste.
  • The U.S. uses around 342 million tons of biomass, meeting 5% of annual energy demands.
  • Biomass can exist in solid, liquid, or gas forms and is categorized into primary and secondary products.
  • Cellulosic ethanol, derived from non-food plants, is a growing area of interest.
  • Biodiesel, mainly created from soybean oil, is a renewable fuel option blended with petroleum diesel.

Nuclear Energy

  • Nuclear energy is produced through fission, which generates heat to boil water and power turbines.
  • Accounts for 18.6% of electricity generation in the U.S.
  • The debate exists regarding its renewability; proponents cite low carbon emissions and potential uranium supply.
  • Critics argue that uranium is not renewable and will eventually deplete.

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Explore the fascinating world of energy conversion through the Hoover Dam and marine energy systems. Learn how turbines work with falling water and the various types of marine energy devices that harness ocean power. This quiz covers essential concepts in renewable energy generation and its mechanical principles.

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