Chapter 16 – Alternative Energies
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6 % of the energy in the United States comes from renewable energy sources.
Solar
Explain how a passive heating systems work.
Explain how active heating systems work.
Explain the concept of natural cooling.
What are solar thermal system and list their pros and cons?
Explain how photovoltaic technology is being used and its pros and cons.
Hydroelectric
Explain how a hydroelectric power station works.
What is the future of hydro power in the U.S. (in the world)?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of hydroelectric power?
How does tidal power work?
What is OTEC technology?
Wind
Describe today’s windmills.
Where (geographically) does wind power have the most potential?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of wind power?
Biomass
List several types of biomass. Why is it the #1 fuel source in the world?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using solid biomass fuels?
What are three advantages of biofuels over gasoline?
What are three major threats to a biomass economy?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of ethanol?
How is biodiesel and methanol produced?
Geothermal
How does a GHP system work?
What are the major advantages and two major disadvantages of geothermal energy?
What country is the world’s largest producer of geothermal energy?
Hydrogen
Why could hydrogen be a great alternative to oil?
What are the four challenges of widespread use of hydrogen fuel?
What are the drawbacks of hydrogen fueled cars and what are some potential solutions?
How could nanotechnology help with fuel cell development?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of hydrogen fuel?