You will be putting together a video presentation on one of the following topics.
Your assignment is to analyze some energy technologies and talking points. Here are the must-haves:
1. Description of the chosen energy technology
2. Evaluate them in terms of their efficiency and impact on the environment.
3. Explain and use of vocabulary, and terminology related to the chosen energy technology.
4. Evaluate the efficiency of the chosen energy technology.
5. Make connections between that technology and the impact on the environment.
6. Future of the technology
7. Competitors to that technology
8. Companies that run that technology
9. Occupations around that technology
10. Citations APA
As you complete your research you will find additional information which you can expand on inside your presentation.
Topics:
fossil fuel–burning power plants
hydro-powered generators
Geothermal Energy
wind turbine
solar panels
Ethanol as alternative energy source
Hydrogen as an energy resource
Biomass as an energy resource
deep lake water cooling as an alternative to conventional air conditioning systems in office towers
Can Ontario's energy needs are served by solar and wind technologies
What types of chemical reactions occur in different types of fuel cells?
OTHER IDEA - email me
Title: Geothermal Energy: Harnessing the Earth's Heat for a Sustainable Future
1. Description of Geothermal Energy:
Geothermal energy utilizes the heat stored beneath the Earth's surface to generate electricity or provide direct heating and cooling. This energy source taps into naturally occurring hot water reservoirs or steam reservoirs in volcanic regions or hot rock deposits, providing a constant and reliable source of power.
2. Evaluation of Efficiency and Environmental Impact:
Geothermal energy is highly efficient, as it converts over 98% of the heat extracted to electricity, compared to the limited efficiency of fossil fuel-powered plants. It is also considered environmentally friendly, as it releases negligible emissions and avoids the extraction and burning of finite fossil fuels.
3. Vocabulary and Terminology:
a) Geothermal reservoir: Underground area where hot water or steam is trapped.
b) Binary power plant: Utilizes a secondary fluid with a lower boiling point to generate electricity.
c) Enhanced geothermal systems (EGS): Utilizes hydraulic fracturing to create permeable pathways in hot rock reservoirs, expanding the potential of geothermal resources.
4. Efficiency of Geothermal Energy:
Geothermal power plants have efficiency levels of 10-23%, which is higher than traditional renewables like wind or solar, but lower than some fossil fuel power plants. However, the overall efficiency is improved by utilizing geothermal energy for direct heating and cooling applications.
5. Connection between Technology and Environmental Impact:
Geothermal energy has a minimal environmental impact, producing no greenhouse gas emissions during operation. It helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels and contributes to the transition towards a more sustainable and carbon-neutral energy sector.
6. Future of Geothermal Technology:
The future of geothermal energy looks promising, as advancements in EGS technology and increased investment in research and development are expanding the potential for harnessing geothermal resources globally. Continued growth is projected due to its low emissions, reliability, and consistent power output.
7. Competitors to Geothermal Technology:
While geothermal energy is advantageous in terms of its reliability, it faces competition from other renewable sources like solar and wind energy. Additionally, improvements in energy storage technologies may impact the relative competitiveness of geothermal energy.
8. Companies in Geothermal Energy Sector:
a) Ormat Technologies: A leading provider of geothermal energy solutions with operations worldwide.
b) Chevron Corporation: Involved in both oil and natural gas exploration as well as the development of geothermal energy projects.
c) Enel Green Power: A renewable energy company with a significant geothermal portfolio.
9. Occupations in the Geothermal Energy Field:
Occupations related to geothermal energy include geologists, geothermal engineers, drilling technicians, power plant operators, and environmental specialists.
10. Citations APA:
Please refer to the attached APA citation document for a comprehensive list of the sources utilized in this presentation.
Here is a step-by-step breakdown on how to analyze the chosen energy technology, which in this case will be "solar panels":
1. Description of Solar Panels:
Solar panels are devices that convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic (PV) cells. These cells are typically made of semiconducting materials like silicon and are connected to form modules or panels. When sunlight hits the panels, the photons in the light excite the electrons in the semiconducting material, generating an electric current.
2. Evaluating Efficiency and Environmental Impact:
Solar panels are considered highly efficient in converting sunlight into electricity, with average efficiencies ranging from 15% to 20%. However, the efficiency can vary depending on factors like panel quality, placement, and solar irradiance.
In terms of environmental impact, solar panels have minimal negative effects. They do not produce any pollution or greenhouse gas emissions during operation, making them a clean and renewable energy source. The production and disposal of solar panels do have some environmental impact due to the manufacturing processes and the use of certain materials. However, their long lifespan and carbon reduction benefits outweigh these impacts over time.
3. Explanation of Vocabulary and Terminology:
To discuss solar panels accurately, it is essential to understand key vocabulary and scientific terms. Some commonly used terms include:
- Photovoltaic (PV): The process of converting sunlight into electricity using semiconducting materials.
- Solar irradiance: The amount of sunlight energy received per unit area.
- Efficiency: The percentage of sunlight energy that can be converted into electricity by solar panels.
- Modules/panels: The individual units that make up a solar array, consisting of multiple PV cells.
- Inverter: A device that converts the direct current (DC) generated by solar panels into the alternating current (AC) used in homes and businesses.
4. Evaluating Solar Panel Efficiency:
Solar panel efficiency refers to the ability of the panels to convert sunlight into electricity. Higher efficiency panels can generate more electricity per unit of sunlight received. Efficiency can be influenced by factors such as panel quality, technology advancements, and the specific conditions where the panels are installed. It is important to consider efficiency when selecting solar panels for optimal energy production.
5. Connection between Solar Panels and Environmental Impact:
Solar panels have a positive impact on the environment due to their clean and renewable nature. By harnessing sunlight to generate electricity, solar panels help reduce reliance on fossil fuels, thus lowering greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. The use of solar panels supports the transition to a sustainable energy system and mitigates climate change.
6. Future of Solar Panel Technology:
The future of solar panel technology looks promising, as ongoing research and development aim to improve efficiency, durability, and affordability. Advancements in materials, such as perovskite-based cells, are expected to enhance efficiency. Furthermore, the integration of solar panels into building materials and the development of energy storage solutions will enhance their practicality and ensure a more reliable electricity supply.
7. Competitors to Solar Panel Technology:
Solar panel technology faces competition from other renewable energy sources, such as wind turbines and geothermal energy. Both wind and geothermal technologies have their unique advantages and considerations, including the availability of suitable locations and the consistency of energy production. However, in recent years, solar panels have become increasingly competitive due to their falling costs and widespread feasibility.
8. Companies Running Solar Panel Technology:
Numerous companies are involved in manufacturing and installing solar panels. Some notable companies include Tesla Solar, SunPower Corporation, First Solar, Canadian Solar, and JinkoSolar. It is recommended to further research and cite specific companies relevant to your region or area of interest.
9. Occupations around Solar Panel Technology:
The growing adoption of solar panels has created various job opportunities. Occupations related to solar panel technology include solar panel installers, engineers specializing in photovoltaic systems, sales and marketing professionals, researchers in solar energy, and project managers for solar energy projects. These occupations play a vital role in supporting the growth and implementation of solar panel technology.
10. Citations in APA Format:
When conducting research and using external sources for your presentation, it is crucial to properly cite your references using the APA citation style. Refer to the APA guidelines for citing sources such as research papers, books, articles, and websites. Make sure to include in-text citations and a corresponding reference list at the end of your presentation.
Remember to adapt and modify the above steps to fit other chosen energy technologies. If you have any further questions or need assistance with a different energy technology, please let me know.
For your video presentation on one of the topics listed, let's choose "solar panels" as the energy technology. Here's how you can go about analyzing and gathering information for each must-have requirement:
1. Description of Solar Panels:
Start by explaining what solar panels are and how they work. Solar panels are devices that convert sunlight into electricity through the use of photovoltaic (PV) cells. These cells are usually made of silicon and generate electricity when photons from sunlight knock electrons loose from atoms, allowing them to flow through an electrical circuit.
2. Evaluation of Efficiency and Environmental Impact:
Research and analyze the efficiency of solar panels by looking into their conversion efficiency, which indicates how effectively they convert sunlight into electricity. Compare the efficiency of different types of solar panels, such as monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film.
Assess the environmental impact of solar panels by considering their carbon footprint, water usage during manufacturing, and the amount of hazardous chemicals used in production. Compare these factors to other energy technologies.
3. Vocabulary and Terminology:
Introduce and explain important vocabulary and terminology related to solar panels, such as:
- Photovoltaic (PV) cells
- Conversion efficiency
- Sunlight intensity
- Insolation
- Inverter
- Grid-tied system
- Net metering
Explain these terms in a way that is easily understandable for your audience.
4. Evaluation of Solar Panel Efficiency:
Evaluate the efficiency of solar panels by comparing their conversion efficiency to other energy technologies. Discuss factors that may impact solar panel efficiency, such as shading, temperature, and orientation.
5. Connections between Technology and Environmental Impact:
Analyze the environmental impact of solar panels by discussing their benefits, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. Discuss the use of renewable resources and the potential for mitigating climate change.
6. Future of Solar Panel Technology:
Research and discuss the future of solar panel technology, including advancements in efficiency, durability, and cost reduction. Explore emerging concepts such as perovskite solar cells and solar panels integrated into building materials.
7. Competitors to Solar Panel Technology:
Examine competing technologies that generate renewable energy, such as wind turbines and hydroelectric power. Compare their advantages, disadvantages, and current market share.
8. Companies Involved in Solar Panel Technology:
Research and identify major companies that manufacture and install solar panels. Some well-known examples include SunPower, Canadian Solar, First Solar, and JinkoSolar.
9. Occupations around Solar Panel Technology:
Discuss the various occupations related to solar panel technology, such as solar panel installers, system designers, engineers, project managers, and sales representatives. Highlight the growing job market in the renewable energy industry.
10. Citations in APA Format:
Ensure to properly cite all sources used in your research and presentation using the APA citation style. List your sources for reference on a concluding slide or in a separate document.
By following these steps and conducting thorough research on each must-have requirement, you will gather comprehensive information to create an informative and engaging video presentation on solar panels as an energy technology.