Types of Renewable Energy by National Geographic Society

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Questions and Answers

What is the main source of energy for wind turbines?

Wind

What is the purpose of wind farms?

To generate electricity

What are some factors that affect the efficiency of wind turbines?

Location, time of day, and weather

What is a potential drawback of wind turbines for wildlife?

Dangerous for bats and birds Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary source of heat for geothermal energy?

Underground heat Signup and view all the answers

Explain the difference between active solar energy and passive solar energy.

Active solar energy uses special technology to capture the sun's rays, while passive solar energy does not use equipment and relies on natural sunlight. Signup and view all the answers

How does solar power's reliability as a primary power source in a community pose a challenge?

Solar power's reliability is challenged by factors like installation costs, dependence on sunlight availability, and varying sunlight levels based on location, season, and time of day. Signup and view all the answers

Discuss the historical significance of wind energy use.

People have been utilizing wind energy throughout history, with examples like Ancient Egyptians using wind-powered boats over 5,000 years ago and windmills in 200 B.C. for various purposes. Signup and view all the answers

What are some challenges associated with implementing wind turbines for electricity generation?

Challenges include potential negative impacts on wildlife, variable wind patterns affecting efficiency, and the need for suitable locations with consistent wind speeds. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the concept of hydroelectric power generation.

Hydroelectric power is generated by harnessing the energy of moving water, typically by constructing dams to control the flow and produce electricity. Signup and view all the answers

How does the efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) cells impact the adoption of solar energy technology?

Higher efficiency of PV cells leads to better electricity generation from sunlight, making solar energy more attractive and cost-effective for widespread use. Signup and view all the answers

Discuss the economic considerations that affect the feasibility of solar power installations.

Economic factors like the initial cost of installing PV cells and building structures for passive solar technology, along with ongoing maintenance expenses, influence the affordability and adoption of solar power. Signup and view all the answers

How does the availability of sunlight impact the practicality of solar power as a primary energy source?

The variability in sunlight availability due to geographical location, seasonal changes, and time of day affects the reliability and consistency of solar power generation. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the relationship between wind energy and sustainable development.

Wind energy contributes to sustainable development by offering a clean, renewable power source that reduces greenhouse gas emissions and promotes energy independence. Signup and view all the answers

What role do wind turbines play in modern energy production and the transition to renewable sources?

Wind turbines are key components in modern energy production, playing a crucial role in the shift towards renewable sources by harnessing wind power to generate electricity. Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Purpose of wind farms?

To generate electricity.

Factors affecting wind turbine efficiency?

Location, time of day, and weather.