Geothermal energy

Definition

Geothermal energy is the heat that comes from the Earth's interior, which can be harnessed for various purposes, including electricity generation and direct heating applications. This renewable energy source utilizes the constant temperature beneath the Earth's surface, making it a reliable and sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. The use of geothermal energy helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on non-renewable resources.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Geothermal energy is considered a renewable resource because it relies on the Earth’s internal heat, which is virtually inexhaustible on a human timescale.
2. Countries like Iceland and the Philippines are leaders in utilizing geothermal energy due to their geological conditions, with Iceland generating about 25% of its electricity from this source.
3. The process of harnessing geothermal energy can have low emissions compared to fossil fuels, making it a cleaner option for energy production.
4. Geothermal heating systems are often used for residential heating and cooling, significantly reducing energy bills and environmental impact.
5. The capacity for geothermal energy varies by region; areas with volcanic activity or tectonic plate boundaries are more likely to have accessible geothermal resources.

Review Questions

• How does geothermal energy production compare to fossil fuel energy production in terms of environmental impact?
  • Geothermal energy production is generally much more environmentally friendly than fossil fuel energy production. While fossil fuels release significant amounts of greenhouse gases and other pollutants into the atmosphere, geothermal systems emit very low levels of emissions. The use of geothermal energy reduces reliance on carbon-intensive resources and helps mitigate climate change by providing a cleaner alternative for electricity generation and heating.
• Discuss the advantages and limitations of utilizing geothermal energy as a renewable resource.
  • Geothermal energy has several advantages, including its reliability as a consistent energy source and its low carbon footprint compared to traditional fossil fuels. Additionally, it can provide both electricity and direct heating applications. However, limitations exist, such as geographical restrictions, as only certain regions possess accessible geothermal resources. The initial costs for drilling and plant construction can also be high, potentially deterring investment despite long-term savings.
• Evaluate the potential future developments in geothermal technology and their implications for global energy sustainability.
  • Future developments in geothermal technology, particularly enhanced geothermal systems (EGS), could significantly expand the potential for harnessing geothermal energy in previously unsuitable locations. Advancements may lead to improved efficiency and reduced costs associated with drilling and resource extraction. As these technologies evolve, they could play a crucial role in diversifying global energy sources and contributing to sustainability goals by reducing dependence on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

Related terms

Hydrothermal resources: Natural reservoirs of hot water or steam found underground, which are crucial for generating geothermal energy.

Geothermal power plant: A facility that converts geothermal energy into electricity by using steam or hot water from the Earth's crust to drive turbines.

Enhanced geothermal systems (EGS): Technologies that create artificial reservoirs by injecting water into hot dry rock formations to produce steam for energy generation.