Oil Usage and Environmental Impact
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following best describes the relationship between oil usage and the likelihood of environmental damage?

  • Higher oil consumption leads to more effective environmental protection measures, negating spill risks.
  • Oil usage and environmental damage are unrelated; oil spills occur randomly irrespective of consumption levels.
  • Reduced oil usage correlates with a decreased risk of oil spills, lessening environmental harm. (correct)
  • Increased oil usage directly reduces the probability of oil spills, promoting environmental health.

If a community decides to switch from oil to solar energy, what is the most likely environmental benefit?

  • An increase in the frequency of natural disasters due to decreased fossil fuel consumption.
  • A greater need for oil in the manufacturing of solar panels, thus negating the environmental benefit.
  • A reduction in air and water pollution associated with the extraction and transportation of oil. (correct)
  • A rise in global temperatures because solar panels absorb more sunlight than oil refineries.

Imagine an oil rig has an accident, leading to a leak in the ocean. What is a likely immediate consequence for marine life in that area?

  • A boost in the growth of coral reefs as the oil provides them with nutrients.
  • A decrease in fish populations due to toxic effects and habitat destruction. (correct)
  • No noticeable impact because marine life is adapted to oil exposure.
  • An increase in biodiversity as new habitats are formed by the oil.

How might the implementation of stricter regulations on oil transportation affect the frequency of oil spills?

<p>Stricter regulations may reduce the frequency of spills by enforcing better safety measures. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a coastal community relies heavily on fishing, how might an oil spill most significantly affect their economy?

<p>By decreasing the value of fish stocks and disrupting fishing activities. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following human activities is LEAST likely to directly contribute to the depletion of natural resources used for energy production?

<p>Implementing stricter regulations on offshore oil drilling. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary environmental concern associated with the widespread burning of fossil fuels for energy?

<p>Increased levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and acidification of ocean waters. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the relationship between natural resource use for energy and environmental impact?

<p>The extraction and use of any natural resource for energy will have some level of environmental impact. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A community is deciding between building a coal-fired power plant and a wind farm to meet its energy needs. Which statement accurately compares a potential environmental impact of each option?

<p>A coal-fired plant will contribute to air pollution, while a wind farm may impact bird and bat populations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A town is considering switching from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. What would be the MOST significant long-term environmental benefit of this change?

<p>Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and improved air quality. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant challenge associated with relying heavily on solar energy as a primary energy source?

<p>Solar energy generation depends on sunlight availability, which varies. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can individuals reduce the environmental impact of energy consumption in their daily lives?

<p>By using energy-efficient appliances and reducing energy waste. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a new law were introduced which taxed companies based on the amount of pollution they produced, what effect would that have on the companies?

<p>It would provide companies an incentive to reduce pollution. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Hydroelectric power is considered a renewable energy resource because:

<p>The water used is constantly replenished by natural processes. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a significant environmental change caused by hydroelectric power plants?

<p>Alteration of river flow patterns, impacting habitats and migration. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can altered river flow downstream from a hydroelectric dam affect fish populations?

<p>By disrupting natural cues for migration and spawning. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the construction of a hydroelectric dam most directly impact sediment transport in a river system?

<p>It blocks sediment from moving downstream, affecting delta formation and coastal erosion. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of decreased nutrient flow downstream of a hydroelectric dam?

<p>Reduced productivity of aquatic ecosystems, affecting the food web. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How might the change in water temperature caused by a hydroelectric dam affect aquatic life?

<p>It can disrupt the reproduction cycles and species distribution of temperature-sensitive organisms. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the likely impact of building a hydroelectric dam on the biodiversity of the surrounding terrestrial ecosystem?

<p>It reduces biodiversity by flooding terrestrial habitats and fragmenting ecosystems. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a hydroelectric dam causes a significant decrease in fish populations, how might this affect other animals in the ecosystem?

<p>It could destabilize the food web, impacting predators that rely on fish as a primary food source. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the process by which wind energy is converted into electricity?

<p>Wind pushes turbine blades, causing them to spin and power a generator. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is wind considered a renewable energy resource?

<p>Wind is replenished naturally and is not depleted by use. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary environmental concern associated with wind turbines, as mentioned in the provided articles?

<p>The potential harm to birds and bats from spinning turbine blades. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Compared to fossil fuel power plants, wind power plants have:

<p>a smaller impact on the environment. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Variations in which factor primarily drive the creation of wind?

<p>Solar irradiance (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a region consistently experiences very low wind speeds, what is the MOST likely consequence for a wind turbine in that area?

<p>The turbine will be unable to generate electricity consistently. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A community is considering building a wind farm near a migratory bird route. Which of these actions would BEST mitigate potential harm to the birds?

<p>Installing radar systems that detect birds and temporarily shut down turbines. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Engineers are trying to improve the efficiency of a wind turbine. Which design change would MOST directly increase the amount of electricity generated at a given wind speed?

<p>Increasing the length of the turbine blades to capture more wind energy. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Adam Ocasio's aspiration to own BP stems primarily from a desire to:

<p>Implement stricter environmental safety measures to prevent future disasters. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Erica Perez believes a lack of concern about the oil spill stems from:

<p>The perception that the disaster is geographically distant and therefore irrelevant to some people. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best summarizes the collective sentiment of Angie Winston, Aldo Texcucano, Ngone Fall and Olivia Parani regarding the oil spill?

<p>Concern for the immediate impact on the environment and wildlife. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these statements is closest to what Adelins Maldonado suggests people can do to conserve energy?

<p>Share rides to reduce the number of vehicles used. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If Maryellen Rosa wanted to extend the learning activity, which task would connect the student's concerns to actionable solutions?

<p>Creating a plan to reduce their carbon footprint at home and school. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement aligns with Angie Tamayo's perspective on the oil spill's impact on people in the United States?

<p>Most people are concerned because the impact affects them directly or indirectly. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Paulina Subia's concern about the oil spill primarily focuses on:

<p>The disruption of recreational activities and enjoyment of natural resources. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Alejandra Chavez suggests using 'swirly light bulbs'. Which concept from science is closest to what she is referring to?

<p>Compact Fluorescent Lamps. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is natural gas considered a nonrenewable energy resource?

<p>It is formed over millions of years from buried plant and animal material. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the effect of burning natural gas and gasoline impact the environment in a similar way?

<p>Both release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way might using natural gas be environmentally better than using gasoline?

<p>Natural gas gives off less carbon dioxide when burned compared to gasoline. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following processes directly harnesses wind energy to produce electricity?

<p>Utilizing wind turbines to spin blades that turn a generator. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do variations in temperature on Earth's surface contribute to the generation of wind energy?

<p>Temperature differences cause air pressure variations, leading to air movement or wind. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary limitation of wind turbine electricity generation?

<p>Wind turbine electricity generation is intermittent, depending on wind availability. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Considering both natural gas and wind energy, which statement best describes a key difference in their impact on the environment?

<p>Natural gas releases greenhouse gases when used, while wind energy does not. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a community aims to reduce its carbon footprint, what is an effective strategy considering the information about natural gas and wind energy?

<p>Shift from using natural gas for electricity to using wind energy, where feasible. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Renewable Energy

Energy resources that can be replenished naturally over time.

Non-Renewable Energy

Resources that cannot be easily replaced once used, like oil and coal.

Fuels

Natural substances used to generate energy, like coal, oil, and wood.

Natural Resources

Materials or substances that occur in nature and can be used for economic gain.

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Environmental Impact

Harmful effects on the environment from using energy sources, like pollution.

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Energy Conservation

Using less energy to conserve resources and reduce pollution.

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Environmental Pollution

Damage to the environment caused by harmful substances.

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Environmental Protection

Actions taken to minimize harm to the environment.

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Hydroelectric Power

Power generated from the energy of moving water.

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Why is hydroelectric power renewable?

Hydroelectric power uses water, which is constantly being renewed by rain and rivers.

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How do dams affect fish?

Dams can block fish migration, impacting their ability to reproduce.

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How do dams change land?

Dams usually create reservoirs, which flood land and change habitats.

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How dams change water conditions?

Altered water flow can change the temperature and oxygen levels of water, affecting aquatic life.

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How do habitat changes affect animals?

Changing habitats can force animals to find new homes or reduce their populations if they can't adapt.

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How do dams affect nutrients downstream?

Loss of nutrients downstream can impact plant life that relies on them impacting food chains and ecological balance.

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Energy Sources & Environment

Energy and fuels come from natural resources; their use impacts the environment.

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Nonrenewable Resource

A natural resource that cannot be easily replaced; it exists in limited quantities.

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Environmental Impacts of Oil Spills

harming wildlife, polluting water, and damaging habitats

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How Oil Spreads After a Spill

Oil can spread large distances via currents and waterways.

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Cause and Effect

Events have causes, and these lead to effects.

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Wind Energy

Energy from moving air.

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Cause of Wind

Uneven heating of Earth's surface.

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Wind Turbine

Device that turns wind into electricity.

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Generator

Part of the turbine that generate electricity.

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Tower

Tall structure that supports the turbine.

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Wind Turbine Concerns

Spinning produces noise and risk to birds.

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Technology

Human-made solution to solve problems.

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Devastating

Causing great damage or destruction.

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Massive

Extremely large or great.

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Pollution

Harmful substances released into the environment.

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Conserve energy

Taking multiple actions to reduce the usage of energy.

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Save energy

To use less of something to avoid waste.

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Carpooling

Sharing a car ride to reduce the number of vehicles on the road.

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Swirly light bulbs

An energy-efficient type of lightbulb.

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Appeal

To make a request to a higher authority.

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Natural Gas

A nonrenewable energy resource found far below Earth's surface, mainly composed of methane.

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Carbon Dioxide (CO2)

A gas produced by burning fossil fuels; contributes to the greenhouse effect.

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Renewable Energy Resource

Energy that comes from sources that are naturally replenished.

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Moving Air

The source of wind energy, caused by uneven heating of Earth's surface.

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Wind Turbine Reliability

Not consistent, depends on factors such as wind presence and strength.

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Study Notes

  • The topic focuses on energy resources and their effects on the environment
  • Addresses performance expectation 4-ESS3-1 for Grade 4 science

Hydroelectric Power

  • Hydroelectric power is the largest renewable energy resource in the United States

  • Hydroelectric power plants use the energy of flowing water

  • The flowing water spins the blades of a machine called a turbine, which uses the spinning to create electricity

  • Hydroelectric power depends on the water cycle

  • The dam slows the flow of the water in the river, causing the temperature of the river to change

  • Certain types of fish that swim upstream to reproduce cannot get past the dam

  • A large pool of water called a reservoir is formed due to the dam slowing the water

  • Reservoirs flood areas that are habitats for birds and mammals

  • Hydroelectric power is considered a renewable energy resource because the water is not "used up" - the water cycle returns the water

  • A hydroelectric power plant causes two changes to the environment: water temperature change and physically blocking the river

  • Water temperature changes can affect plant and fish life

  • Blocking the river stops the ability of fish to swim

  • Affecting their offspring

Nuclear Energy

  • Uranium is a common metal used in nuclear energy power plants.

  • 1 ton of uranium = 16,000 tons of coal or 80,000 barrels of oil in terms of electricity generation

  • Uranium is not a renewable energy resource

  • Nuclear energy power plants get energy comes from splitting a tiny piece of uranium, which heats water to make steam

  • The steam spins a machine that changes the motion energy of spinning into electrical energy

  • Uranium is not burned, so nuclear energy power plants do not produce greenhouse gasses the same way coal and oil do

  • Nuclear energy production has wastes that give off radiation

    • Some of the waste is more harmful than other waste

  • The low-level waste is packs in boxes and buried

  • The radiation levels given off by these dumps are always measured

  • High-level waste is stored in steel-lined concrete pools with water at the power plant because people must be protected from this waste

  • Scientists do not worry about running out of uranium because a small amount yields a lot of energy and uranium is a common metal

  • A release of radiation is harmful effect nuclear energy could have, but the advantage is that is does not release greenhouse gasses

Coal Energy

  • Most produced electricity in the United States comes from coal-burning power plants

  • Coal mining has two methods: underground and surface mining.

  • Underground: the land where the coal sits is dug through to extract the resource

  • Surface mining: the tops of mountains are removed for resources

  • Underground mining releases methane which can cause climate change because it's a greenhouse gas

  • Surface mining removes rock and soil that pollutes local streams, which is harmful to local wildlife

  • Scrubbers are used to remove material released in the air in powerplants

  • Lands impacted by coal mining may be reused for human endeavors, such as landfills, airports, and golf courses

Oil Spills

  • Oil spills harm the environment because they can kill animals, pollute water, and pollute fishing grounds
  • Saving energy can lesson oil spills, as oil is extracted to be used, saving energy reduces demand and chance of oil spills

Oil Spills Effect on Barataria Bay

  • The fisherman in "A Fisherman's Story" talks about Barataria Bay
  • The oil rig exploded in the Gulf of Mexico and spread in all directions, including to Barataria Bay
  • The oil was shown in varying amounts over a widespread area

Non-renewable Energy Resources

  • Natural gas and gasoline are two fossil fuels that are nonrenewable energy resources

  • Gasoline is used as a fuel for cars, trucks, boats, and more

  • Natural gas is burned to cook, heat, and make electricity

  • Oil, which is needed to produce gasoline, needs all its chemicals removed

  • Factories, called oil refineries, perform this task

  • Gasoline is made adding ingredients to the extracted oil

  • carbon dioxide is released when gasoline is burned

  • Natural gas comes from beneath the Earth's surface, produced from animal and plant material

  • The heat turns this material into coal, oil, or gas

  • Natural gas is largely methane, which is a greenhouse gas that is released in smaller quantities then coal or oil

  • Natural gas is a nonrenewable resource because it was formed millions of years ago with limited amounts

  • Burning natural gas or gasoline releases the carbon dioxide gas, which can trap heat in Earth's atmosphere, thus increasing global temps

  • Underground extraction can harm plant and animals

  • Natural gas is better, as it can be burned with less air pollution then gasoline to help plants and animals

Wind Energy

  • Wind energy comes from moving air caused when the sun heats some parts of Earth's surface more than others

  • Energy is captured using a wind turbine machine that turns wind energy into electricity

  • It is not always efficient; if there isn't enough wind it cannot turn into electricity

  • Can do to little polluting effect it to the enviroment compated to fossil fuel power plants

  • However sometimes it is noisy

  • Technology can minimize the noise, creating turbine that converts energy into electricity that turns into sound

  • Wind energy is reusable because of the sun continually generating more air to continue again

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