geography (yr9)

• non renewable- resources that can not be replenished.
• renewable- resources that can be replenished.
• fracking- process of injecting liquids into the ground to break rocks and release gas.
• groundwater- water held under ground in soils and rocks.
• energy mix- the range of energy sources used to meet the need for electricity.
• social impacts on using energy:

  + needs are met.

  + allow technological advancements.

  _ fossil fuels cause air pollution which could lead to health problems.

  _ inequalities grow between those with and without energy.
• economic impacts on using energy:

  + allow for development of industry and business.

  + provides jobs.

  _ rising prices as sources decrease.

  _ possible exploitation of a country's resources.
• environmental impacts of using energy:

  + using renewable sources will reduce climate change.

  _ co2 emissions from non-renewable sources.

  _ resources extraction damages landscapes.

  _ loss of greenfield sites as energy plants expand.
• Natural causes of climate change:

  • Orbital changes: the sun's energy on the Earth's surface changes as the Earth's orbit is elliptical its axis is tilted on an angle.
  • Solar output- sunspots increase to a maximum every 11 years.
  • Volcanic activity- volcanic aerosols reflect sunlight away reducing global temperatures temporarily.
• Human causes of climate change:

  • Fossil fuels: release carbon dioxide with accounts for 50% of greenhouse gases.
  • Agriculture: accounts for around 20% of greenhouse gases due to methane production from cows etc. Larger populations and growing demand for met and rice increase contribution.
  • Deforestation: logging and clearing land for agriculture increases carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and reduces ability to planet to absorb carbon through photosynthesis.