Flashcards: Fundamentals of Energy Resources and Environmental Impact — 20 cards

Energy resource — definition?

A natural or transformed source providing usable energy.

Primary energy — role?

Available directly from nature without transformation.

Secondary energy — role?

Derived from transforming primary energy into usable forms.

Fossil fuels — characteristics?

Formed from organic matter, non-renewable, high carbon emissions.

Renewable energy sources — examples?

Solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, biomass.

Nuclear energy — produced by?

Fission of uranium atoms.

Life cycle analysis — purpose?

Assess environmental impacts throughout resource's lifespan.

Resource exploration impacts?

Habitat disturbance, landscape alteration, ecosystem disruption.

Extraction — environmental effects?

Soil degradation, water pollution, habitat loss.

Transport risks?

Spills, leaks, ecosystem damage.

Energy transformation — process?

Converting primary energy into secondary, usable forms.

Refining — role?

Purifies and converts raw energy sources into usable fuels.

Emissions during transformation?

Atmospheric pollutants like CO₂, NOₓ, SO₂.

Energy use — main sources?

Households, transport, industry.

Fossil fuels — environmental impact?

High CO₂ emissions, pollution, habitat disruption.

Renewables — environmental impact?

Low emissions, depends on natural conditions, land use.

Nuclear risks?

Accidents, radioactive waste, long-term contamination.

Exploration activities?

Seismic surveys, drilling, road construction.

Extraction methods?

Mining, quarrying, drilling.

Transport hazards?

Spills, leaks, accidents.