NAME: IGBINOBA KERIL EDOZIE
MATRIC NO. : AGY/19/0786
COURSE: RSG 503
ASSIGNMENT
Discuss what these energy sources (both renewable and
non-renewable) are, how it works (fundamental principles)
and how they are being explored and exploited to generate
energy and other uses (Applicability)
*Biomass
*Nuclear
*Geothermal
*Tidal
*Hydropower
*Solar
*Wind
*Fossil fuels
1. Biomass
Meaning: Biomass is an organic material, such as wood, agricultural waste, or
algae, burned for heat or converted to biofuels. like ethanol or biogas. It
releases energy when the carbon in organic matter reacts with oxygen.
It is applicable in the following ways:
*Used for heating, electricity generation, and as a biofuel for vehicles. *It is
being explored for sustainable energy, especially in agriculture-heavy residue
*It also helps reduce carbon emissions through carbon sequestration
2. Nuclear
Meaning: Nuclear energy comes from splitting atoms of heavy elements like
uranium or thorium, releasing heat and generating steam for electricity.
In nuclear fission, atoms are split, releasing a large amount of energy in the
form of heat, which is then used to produce steam that drives turbines.
It is applicable in the following ways:
*Provides large-scale, low-carbon electricity generation. It's being advanced
for cleaner energy solutions, though concerns exist over safety, waste
disposal, and costs.
*Nuclear energy is also used in medical applications (radiation therapy and
imaging), industrial processes (such as sterilization and material testing), and
research.
3. Geothermal
Meaning: Geothermal energy comes from the heat stored beneath the
Earth's surface.
Wells are drilled into the Earth to access steam or hot water, which is used
to drive turbines or for direct heating.
It is applicable in the following ways
*Provides reliable, renewable energy, especially in volcanic or tectonically
active regions.
*It is also used for direct heating and cooling systems.
4. Tidal
Meaning: Tidal energy harnesses the movement of ocean tides to generate
electricity.
*Tidal turbines or barrages are used to capture the energy from rising and
falling tides, generating electricity as water flows through turbines.
Applicability:
* Majorly for consistent energy generation in coastal areas. It can provide a
predictable, renewable energy source.
*It can also be used in coastal regions for desalination processes or as a
backup power source.
5. Hydropower
Meaning: Hydropower uses flowing water to generate electricity.
*Water from rivers or dams flows over turbines, spinning them to generate
power. The potential energy of water is converted into mechanical energy.
*It's widely used for large-scale electricity generation. It's reliable and
renewable but can have environmental impacts, such as ecosystem
disruption.
6. Solar
Meaning: Solar energy comes from sunlight.
* Solar panels (photovoltaic cells) convert sunlight directly into electricity, or
concentrated solar power systems focus sunlight to generate steam for
turbines.
* It's becoming more cost-effective. It's ideal for both small-scale residential
use and large solar farms, though it depends on sunlight availability.
7. Wind
Meaning: Wind energy is harnessed from air movement.
* Wind turbines convert the kinetic energy of wind into mechanical energy,
which is then used to generate electricity.
Wind energy is one of the fastest-growing renewable energy sources. It is
viable for both onshore and offshore projects, though it is intermittent and
requires large areas.
8. Fossil Fuels
Meaning: Fossil fuels include coal, oil, and natural gas, formed from ancient
organic matter.
*Fossil fuels are burned to release energy, typically for electricity, heating,
or transportation. Combustion releases carbon dioxide and other pollutants.
Wind turbines have been the dominant source of global energy for centuries.
They are highly energy-dense but contribute to climate change, and their
extraction and use are being phased out in favor of cleaner energy
alternatives.
