2023-24

a) What do you understand by energy audit?

An energy audit is a systematic process that assesses the energy consumption of a facility, building,
or organization to identify areas where energy is being used inefficiently.

It includes analyzing energy flows, identifying opportunities for energy conservation, and suggesting
measures to optimize energy usage, ultimately reducing costs and environmental impact.

b) What do you understand by energy chain?

An energy chain refers to the sequence of processes involved in the production, conversion,
transmission, and utilization of energy from its primary sources to end-use applications.

It includes stages like extraction, generation, transmission, distribution, and consumption of energy
in a form suitable for human needs.

c) What is the main advantage of using glass cover in a box-type cooker?

The main advantage of using a glass cover in a box-type solar cooker is that it helps to trap solar
energy by allowing sunlight to enter while preventing heat from escaping.

This creates a greenhouse effect inside the cooker, increasing the temperature and enabling efficient
cooking of food using solar energy.

d) What are the advantages of non-conventional sources of energy?

Non-conventional energy sources, like solar, wind, and geothermal energy, offer several advantages:
they are renewable, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, have lower environmental impacts, produce
minimal greenhouse gas emissions, and help conserve natural resources.

These sources contribute to sustainable energy development and energy security.

e) Explain the process of photosynthesis.

Photosynthesis is a process by which green plants and certain other organisms convert light energy,
usually from the sun, into chemical energy.

In this process, chlorophyll absorbs sunlight and uses it to convert carbon dioxide and water into
glucose and oxygen.

This chemical energy in glucose is stored as food, and oxygen is released as a byproduct.

f) Write different types of turbines used in micro hydro resources.

Common types of turbines used in micro-hydro resources include:

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 1. Pelton Turbine - Suitable for high head and low flow applications.

2. Francis Turbine - Works efficiently in moderate head and flow conditions.

3. Kaplan Turbine - Ideal for low head and high flow situations.

4. Crossflow Turbine - Effective for small, variable flow rates.

g) What do you understand by energy payback period?

The energy payback period is the amount of time required for an energy system to generate the
same amount of energy that was used to produce it.

It is an indicator of the efficiency of energy systems, particularly renewable energy sources, and helps
evaluate the sustainability of energy investments.

h) Write the factors that led to accelerated development of wind power.

Several factors have contributed to the accelerated development of wind power:

1. Technological Advancements - Improved turbine efficiency and durability.

2. Government Incentives - Tax credits, subsidies, and feed-in tariffs.

3. Environmental Awareness - Focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

4. Rising Energy Demand - Need for reliable and sustainable power sources.

5. Falling Costs - Reduced installation and maintenance costs.

i) What are the main hurdles in the development of tidal energy?

The main hurdles in developing tidal energy include:

1. High Initial Costs - Expensive infrastructure and technology.

2. Environmental Impact - Potential effects on marine ecosystems.

3. Limited Suitable Locations - Specific conditions needed for feasibility.

4. Technological Challenges - Durability against harsh marine environments.

j) Write various methods of tapping geothermal energy.

The primary methods for tapping geothermal energy include:

1. Dry Steam Plants - Directly use steam from geothermal reservoirs.

2. Flash Steam Plants - Convert high-pressure hot water into steam.

3. Binary Cycle Plants - Use a secondary fluid with a lower boiling point to generate steam.

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 4. Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) - Artificially enhance hot rock permeability to produce
geothermal energy.

2022-23

a) Define Ecology

Ecology is the branch of biology that studies the relationships between living organisms and their
environment. It explores how organisms interact with each other and with non-living elements, like
water, soil, and air, in ecosystems.

Ecology is essential for understanding biodiversity, ecosystem balance, and environmental

conservation.

b) What is Meant by the Greenhouse Effect? Write Different Greenhouse Gases.

The greenhouse effect is the process by which certain gases in Earth’s atmosphere trap heat,
preventing it from escaping into space, and thus warming the planet.

This natural effect is essential for maintaining Earth’s temperature but can lead to global warming if
intensified by human activities.

• Greenhouse Gases include:

o Carbon dioxide (CO₂)

o Methane (CH₄)

o Nitrous oxide (N₂O)

o Water vapor (H₂O)

o Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)

c) Define Solar Constant and its Value

The solar constant is the average amount of solar energy received per unit area on a surface
perpendicular to the Sun's rays, at the top of Earth’s atmosphere, when Earth is at an average
distance from the Sun.

It is a measure of the intensity of solar radiation.

• Value of Solar Constant: Approximately 1361 W/m².

d) What are the Advantages of Conventional Sources of Energy?

Conventional energy sources, such as fossil fuels and nuclear energy, offer several benefits:

1. Reliability: They provide a stable and consistent supply of energy.

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 2. High Energy Density: These sources yield significant amounts of energy from small
quantities.

3. Well-Established Infrastructure: Extensive systems are in place for extraction, processing,

and distribution.

4. Economic Benefits: They create large employment opportunities in various sectors.

f) Calculate Declination and Hour Angle Made by Beam Radiation with Horizontal Surface to a Flat
Plate Collector on October 15 in New Delhi (28° 35’N, 77° 12’E)

To calculate Declination (δ) and Hour Angle (H):

1. Declination (δ): The angle between the rays of the sun and the plane of the Earth's equator,
which changes throughout the year.

o Approximate value for October 15: δ = -9.58°.

2. Hour Angle (H): The angle representing the Earth’s rotation from solar noon, calculated as
15° per hour from solar noon. Specific time of day and adjustments for New Delhi’s location
would refine this calculation.

(For precise calculation, a detailed trigonometric analysis based on solar geometry equations is
required.)

g) Write the Effects of Aerodynamics of Blades on Wind Power Generation

The aerodynamic design of wind turbine blades significantly affects wind power generation:

• Lift and Drag Forces: Proper blade shape maximizes lift (useful force) and minimizes drag
(resisting force), enhancing energy capture.

• Tip Speed Ratio (TSR): Optimal ratio between blade tip speed and wind speed increases
efficiency.

• Minimizing Turbulence: Aerodynamic profiles reduce turbulence, lowering noise and

mechanical stress.

• Angle of Attack: The angle between the blade chord and wind direction influences power
production and overall efficiency.

h) Write the Factors Affecting Biogas Generation

Biogas generation depends on several key factors:

1. Temperature: Biogas production is optimal at 35-40°C, supporting microbial activity.

2. pH Level: A neutral pH of around 6.8-7.2 is ideal for anaerobic digestion.

3. Type of Feedstock: Different organic materials yield varying amounts of biogas.

4. Retention Time: Longer digestion time typically increases methane production.

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 5. Moisture Content: Sufficient water is needed for microbial growth and biogas yield.

i) Draw the I-V Characteristics of a Solar Cell

The I-V (Current-Voltage) Characteristics of a solar cell depict its performance under light exposure:

• Open Circuit Voltage (Voc): The maximum voltage when no current flows.

• Short Circuit Current (Isc): The maximum current when the circuit is shorted.

• Maximum Power Point (MPP): The point on the I-V curve where the product of current and
voltage is at its peak, representing the cell's optimal operating point.

(Draw a typical I-V curve to illustrate these points.)

j) Write Various Methods of Tapping Geothermal Energy

2019-20

a) How to Convert Chemical Energy to Electrical Energy?

Chemical energy can be converted to electrical energy using electrochemical cells or batteries. In a
battery, chemical reactions occur between electrodes (anode and cathode) in the presence of an
electrolyte.

These reactions cause a flow of electrons, creating an electric current that can be used to power
devices.

Fuel cells, where chemical reactions between hydrogen and oxygen produce electricity, are another
example of this conversion.

b) Advantages and Disadvantages of Renewable Energy Sources

• Advantages:

o Sustainable: Renewable sources are replenishable and don’t deplete.

o Environmentally Friendly: Lower greenhouse gas emissions and pollution.

o Energy Security: Reduces dependency on imported fuels.

o Economic Benefits: Job creation in new energy sectors.

• Disadvantages:

o Intermittency: Some sources like solar and wind are weather-dependent.

o High Initial Costs: Expensive setup costs for infrastructure.

o Space Requirements: Large areas are often needed for solar farms and wind
turbines.

o Environmental Impact: Hydropower can affect ecosystems and biodiversity.

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c) Factors to be Considered for Site Selection of Wind Farm

1. Wind Speed: Consistent and high wind speeds are ideal.

2. Land Availability: Requires sufficient space for turbine installation.

3. Grid Access: Proximity to power grids reduces transmission costs.

4. Environmental Impact: Minimizing impact on wildlife and ecosystems.

5. Local Regulations: Compliance with zoning laws and policies.

6. Soil Stability: Strong soil foundation is needed for turbine stability.

d) What is Tidal Energy?

Tidal energy is the energy obtained from the rise and fall of ocean tides, primarily caused by the
gravitational forces between the Earth, Moon, and Sun.

This energy can be harnessed using tidal turbines or barrages that convert the kinetic energy of
moving water into electricity. Tidal energy is renewable and predictable, making it a reliable source
of power.

e) How are Biogas Plants Classified?

Biogas plants are classified based on the design and method of digestion:

1. Fixed Dome Plants: Gas is stored in a fixed dome-shaped structure above the digester.

2. Floating Drum Plants: A floating drum rises and falls with gas production.

3. Bag Digester Plants: Use flexible containers, like plastic bags, to store biogas.

4. Plug Flow Digester: Suitable for areas with consistent temperature, often uses animal waste.

f) What is a Solar Pond?

A solar pond is a body of water designed to collect and store solar energy. It contains salt gradients
that prevent convection, trapping solar heat in the lower layers. The stored heat can be used for
power generation or for heating purposes. Solar ponds are a low-cost method for thermal energy
storage.

g) What is Geothermal Energy?

Geothermal energy is the heat energy that originates from the Earth’s core. This heat can be
accessed through geothermal reservoirs to generate electricity or provide direct heating. It is a clean,
sustainable energy source with applications in power plants, heating systems, and greenhouse
agriculture.

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h) How are Gasifiers Classified?

Gasifiers, which convert solid fuels into combustible gas, can be classified by their design and
method of operation:

1. Fixed Bed Gasifiers: Include updraft and downdraft configurations.

2. Fluidized Bed Gasifiers: Use a fluid-like motion of solid particles for better mixing.

3. Entrained Flow Gasifiers: Operate at high temperature and pressure with finely ground fuels.

i) What is the Basic Principle of Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC)?

The basic principle of OTEC is to exploit the temperature difference between warm surface seawater
and cold deep seawater. This temperature gradient drives a heat engine that generates electricity.
Warm water is used to vaporize a working fluid, which then drives a turbine connected to a
generator. Cold water condenses the vapor back to liquid to complete the cycle.

j) Classify Combined Cycle Power Generation

Combined cycle power generation utilizes both gas and steam turbines to produce electricity. It’s
classified based on the configuration and operation:

1. Single-Shaft Combined Cycle: Both gas and steam turbines are mounted on a single shaft,
driving one generator.

2. Multi-Shaft Combined Cycle: Gas and steam turbines are on separate shafts, each driving its
own generator.

3. Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC): Converts coal or biomass into gas, which is
used in a gas turbine combined cycle setup for higher efficiency.

2018-19

a) Difference between Tidal Energy and Wave Energy

• Tidal Energy: Generated from the gravitational pull of the Moon and Sun on Earth's oceans,
causing tides. Tidal energy is predictable, with energy harnessed during rising and falling
tides using tidal barrages or turbines.

• Wave Energy: Created by wind blowing over the surface of the ocean, causing waves. Wave
energy is less predictable and varies based on wind patterns and water surface. Energy is
captured using wave energy converters on the surface.

b) Origin and Nature of Winds

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 • Origin of Winds: Winds are created by the uneven heating of Earth’s surface by the Sun,
causing air movement from high-pressure areas to low-pressure areas. The Coriolis effect
due to Earth's rotation also influences wind direction.

• Nature of Winds: Winds can vary in speed, direction, and consistency depending on factors
like geographic location, season, altitude, and topography. Trade winds, westerlies, and polar
winds are common wind patterns resulting from atmospheric circulation.

c) How Solar Collectors like Flat Plate and Concentric Collectors Generate Energy

• Flat Plate Collectors: Absorb solar radiation through a flat absorber plate, which heats a
working fluid (like water or air) circulating through it. Commonly used in solar water heating
systems.

• Concentric Collectors (Parabolic): Focus sunlight onto a central receiver using parabolic
mirrors or lenses, reaching higher temperatures. This concentrated heat is used for
electricity generation or industrial processes.

d) Conversion of Biomass into Ethanol

Biomass is converted to ethanol through a biochemical process involving the following steps:

1. Pretreatment: Breaks down complex biomass (e.g., lignocellulose) into simpler sugars.

2. Fermentation: Microorganisms, like yeast, convert the sugars into ethanol.

3. Distillation: Separates ethanol from the fermentation mixture. This process transforms
agricultural waste, plants, or other biomass into bioethanol, a renewable fuel.

e) Difference between Conventional and Non-Conventional Energy Sources

• Conventional Energy Sources:

o Examples: Coal, oil, natural gas, and nuclear energy.

o Characteristics: Limited in supply, high environmental impact, and well-established.

• Non-Conventional Energy Sources:

o Examples: Solar, wind, geothermal, biomass, and tidal energy.

o Characteristics: Renewable, eco-friendly, and rapidly developing technologies.

f) Salient Features of “Energy Conservation Act, 2001”

1. Institution of Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE): Promotes energy efficiency.

2. Energy Efficiency Standards: Establishes norms and standards for efficient energy use in
various sectors.

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 3. Energy Audits: Mandatory audits for certain industries to identify energy-saving
opportunities.

4. Promoting Renewable Energy: Encourages the adoption of renewable energy technologies.

5. Penalty for Non-Compliance: Fines for industries failing to meet energy efficiency standards.

g) Environment-Economy-Energy and Sustainable Development

This concept focuses on balancing environmental health, economic growth, and energy requirements
for long-term sustainability:

• Environment: Protecting natural resources and reducing pollution.

• Economy: Developing in a way that ensures economic prosperity for future generations.

• Energy: Utilizing clean, renewable sources to meet energy needs.

• Sustainable Development: Meeting current needs without compromising the ability of

future generations to meet theirs, by maintaining environmental balance, economic stability,
and social well-being.

h) Difference between Extra-Terrestrial and Terrestrial Radiations

• Extra-Terrestrial Radiation: Solar radiation that reaches Earth’s atmosphere from the Sun
without interference. Its intensity is approximately 1361 W/m² at the top of Earth’s
atmosphere.

• Terrestrial Radiation: Radiation emitted by Earth’s surface after absorbing solar energy. It
includes longwave infrared radiation emitted back into the atmosphere and space.

i) How the Photosynthesis Process Occurs (with Example)

Photosynthesis is the process where plants, algae, and certain bacteria convert sunlight into chemical
energy. It occurs in chloroplasts, using chlorophyll to capture sunlight, which then drives the
transformation of carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

• Example:

o In a green leaf, chlorophyll absorbs sunlight, which splits water molecules.

o Carbon dioxide from the air is used to form glucose, releasing oxygen as a byproduct.

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j) Renewable and Non-Renewable Sources of Energy

• Renewable Energy Sources:

o Examples: Solar, wind, geothermal, biomass, tidal energy.

o Characteristics: Naturally replenished, eco-friendly, sustainable, and generally have a

low environmental impact.

• Non-Renewable Energy Sources:

o Examples: Coal, oil, natural gas, and nuclear energy.

o Characteristics: Finite supply, higher pollution, and significant environmental impact

due to emissions and waste.

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