University of Phoenix Material
Fossil Fuels and Alternative Energy Resource Worksheet
Using the textbooks, the University Library, or other resources, answer each of the following questions in 150 to 200 words.
1. Select a fossil fuel. How is this fossil fuel used? What are the adverse effects on the environment?
The fossil fuel I am selecting will be coal. Coal is a combustible black or brownish-black sedimentary rock composed of mostly carbon and hydrocarbons and is produced in the US. There are many different types of coal that are used for many purposes. One of the most important usages of coal is in electricity generation, steel production, cement manufacturing and as a liquid fuel. About 6.6 billion tons of hard coal was used throughout the world last year, and 1 billion tons of brown coal. Coal making needs great amounts of water, which disturbs the environments of the marine and land-based wildlife as well as individuals who use the water. The methods of burning coal for energy gives off greenhouse gases with additional dangerous toxins which include carbon dioxide, mercury compounds and sulfur dioxide. Toxins made from coal mining can also add to acid rain, mainly in the Appalachian area.
2. Select a local or regional alternative energy resource. How might this resource be used to supplement or replace fossil fuels?
Alternative energy is the term that is used for an energy source that is an alternative for the use of fossil fuels. An alternative energy source would be considered as Renewable energy source, also solar energy. Renewable energy is energy that comes from resources that are naturally replaced such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides, and geothermal heat. The sun, wind and water are sources of energy that are never ending. Yet, one of the biggest benefits of using these sources are that they do not harm the environment in any way. People have been enjoying the benefits of using water energy. Hydro-electricity is being used more...