Topic 8: Energy, Power And Climate Change

The correct answer highlights the need for a cyclical process for continuous conversion of thermal energy into work and the transfer of some energy from the system, which is essential in understanding thermodynamic cycles.

Degraded energy refers to the energy that cannot be used or harnessed efficiently for work within a system.

The correct answer depicts the energy flow in a coal fired power station, showcasing the various components and processes involved in the generation of electricity using coal as a fuel source.

Multiple mechanisms can be involved in the production of electrical power, each utilizing different energy sources for conversion to kinetic or electrical energy. It is essential to understand the various transformations that occur within power generation processes.

Sankey diagrams help visualise energy flow and identify areas of energy degradation. The forward arrow represents useful energy, while the splitting arrows show degraded energy. The thickness of the arrows is proportional to the scale of energy transformation. Incorrect answers may lead to misconceptions in understanding the diagram.

The correct answer shows the diagram that accurately depicts a coal fired power station. The other three options do not represent this type of power station.

The question asked for all different world energy sources, not limited to specific types like Wind and Solar Energy, Hydropower and Biofuels, or Geothermal and Tidal Energy.

Renewable energy sources are those that are naturally replenished and are practically inexhaustible, while non-renewable energy sources are limited in quantity and will eventually be depleted. The correct answer highlights the distinction between the two types of energy sources.

The correct answer, 'table', does not correlate with any known components of coal, while 'water', 'carbon', and 'volatile' are commonly found elements of coal composition.

Oil shade refers to kerogen found in Marl formations, which is typically expensive to extract. Oil tar, on the other hand, is bitumen produced through pyrolysis.

Energy density of a fuel refers to the potential energy stored within the fuel itself, not related to the kinetic energy released, ignition temperature, or consumption rate.

The energy density of fuels is commonly presented in a table format for easy comparison and reference.

The energy density of a fuel directly impacts factors such as cost of production, political and social considerations, and heating capabilities. Other factors like color, weather patterns, and number of syllables in the fuel's name are not relevant in influencing the choice of fuel.

The correct answer states that graph, oil, natural gas, and coal are at the top in terms of relative proportion of world energy use, indicating heavy reliance on fossil fuels.

Fossil fuels are non-renewable sources of energy and typically have high energy density, making them suitable for power stations. The correct answer highlights economic feasibility and practical transportation methods.

Fossil fuels have been the primary source of energy for many years due to their abundance and affordability. However, their transportation and storage come with inherent risks and environmental concerns. It's important to consider both the advantages and disadvantages when evaluating the use of fossil fuels.

The efficiency of power stations by different fossil fuels varies based on factors like fuel type, load factor, and the employed technology. The correct answer provided includes the range and highest efficiencies for coal, natural gas, and oil.

Fossil fuels are not formed through volcanic activity, meteor impacts, or modern industrial processes, but rather through the decomposition of organic matter and subsequent compression over millions of years.

The correct percentages of world consumption of fuels are Coal - 40%, Natural Gas - 19.7%, Oil - 6.7%, Nuclear - 15.1%, Hydroelectric - 16.2%, and Biomass and other - 1%. The incorrect answers provided differ significantly from the actual data.

Fossil fuels have high energy density and are still relatively cheap compared to other sources. However, their combustion can produce pollution and other environmental problems, and they are nonrenewable resources.

Nuclear power has advantages such as high energy density and large uranium reserves, but it also has disadvantages like difficult waste disposal and higher risks. The incorrect answers provided do not accurately reflect the characteristics of nuclear power.

Wave/tidal power has both advantages and disadvantages, and understanding its energy density is important for evaluating its effectiveness as a source of renewable energy. The correct answer provides a comprehensive list of advantages, disadvantages, and considerations for utilizing wave/tidal power.

Hydroelectric power is known for its clean production and renewable source of energy, but it does come with high construction costs and long construction times. Additionally, its energy density is based on the conversion of gravitational potential energy of water into kinetic energy for turbines and eventually electrical energy.

The correct answer highlights the key environmental issues related to fossil fuel recovery and use in power stations. Incorrect answers are designed to mislead by including other environmental problems not directly linked to fossil fuel use.

Solar panels and solar cells both harness energy from the sun, but they differ in their conversion methods. Solar panels convert solar energy to thermal energy, while solar cells convert solar energy to electrical energy.

The correct answer describes how neutrons are utilized to initiate further fission reactions through a chain reaction process. The incorrect answers provide inaccurate information about the role of neutrons in fission reactions.