Assignments March 26
Sec 17.1 Section review, p 475.
1.
Describe five factors that influence the value of a fuel.
Different fuel types are used to supply energy depending on the specific purpose or
machine that is using the fuel. Because all fuels are not equally suited for specific uses the
value of a fuel is also variable.
When considering which fuel to use one needs to consider
1. the cost of acquiring and using the fuel for each specific situation
2. the energy content of the fuel type being considered
3. the availability of the type of fuel source wanted
4. how safe it will be to use the fuel under consideration
5. what type of byproducts will result from the fuels use, especially ones that negatively
impact the environment
2.
Describe how fossil fuels are used to produce electricity.
Fossil fuels (mainly coal) are burned to produce heat. The heat is used to create steam is
used to generate electricity.
Describe how a electric generator works.
1. Heat from burning fuel creates high pressure steam.
2. The steam is used to turn a turbine.
3. The turbine is connected to a generator.
4. Generator set in motion creating electricity.
5. Steam sent to condenser to cool and be reused.
3.
Describe how coal, oil and natural gas form, how these fuels are used, and how using
each fuel affects the environment. (Fuel Types Table/teacher assignment)
Factor
Formation
How used
Affects on
environment
Coal
Plant remains covered with
layers of sediments.
Undergo high heat and pressure
for millions of years
Generating electricity
Heating
Removal of enough soil to level
the top of mountains during
excavation
Pollution of streams from mine
debris, hazardous substances.
Air pollution and formation of
acid rain from release of oxides,
particlulary sulfur oxides
Petroleum (oil)
Natural Gas
Marine organisms buried by
layers of sediments.
Remains decay; transform over
millions of years.
Produce fuels (Ex: gasoline)
Create chemicals for
manufactoring needs
Main component of plastics
Air pollution, smog and acid
rain formation of from release
of oxides
CO2 release contributes to
global warming
Leaks from cars, oil tanker or
oil rig spills pollute water
Marine organisms buried by
layers of ediments.
Remains decay; transform over
millions of years.
Fuel for electric power plants
Fuel for modified vechiles
Heating and cooking
Air pollution when burned
Contributes to global warming