Geothermal energy

Definition

Geothermal energy is the heat derived from the Earth's internal processes, primarily from the decay of radioactive materials and the heat stored beneath the Earth's surface. This sustainable energy source can be harnessed for various applications, including electricity generation and direct heating, and is closely linked to tectonic activity as it often emerges in regions with volcanic activity or hot springs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Geothermal energy is a renewable energy source, meaning it can be replenished naturally and has a minimal environmental impact compared to fossil fuels.
2. Countries with significant geothermal energy production include the United States, Iceland, and the Philippines, utilizing this energy for both electricity and heating.
3. Geothermal power plants convert steam or hot water from the Earth into electricity by using turbines connected to generators.
4. The temperature gradient beneath the Earth's surface can reach over 25 °C per kilometer, making deep drilling feasible for extracting geothermal energy.
5. Geothermal energy can also be harnessed for direct-use applications like heating buildings, growing plants in greenhouses, and drying crops.

Review Questions

• How does geothermal energy relate to tectonic activity and what geological features are typically associated with its presence?
  • Geothermal energy is closely related to tectonic activity because it is often found in regions where tectonic plates interact, leading to volcanic activity and the formation of hot springs. These geological features indicate areas where heat from the Earth's interior is more accessible. As tectonic movements create fissures in the Earth's crust, they allow heat and hot water to rise closer to the surface, making it easier to harness geothermal energy for various uses.
• Discuss the advantages and challenges of utilizing geothermal energy compared to other renewable energy sources.
  • Geothermal energy offers several advantages over other renewable sources, such as its ability to provide a consistent and reliable power supply, as it is not dependent on weather conditions like solar or wind energy. However, challenges include high initial costs for drilling and infrastructure development, as well as geographical limitations since geothermal resources are primarily located near tectonically active regions. Balancing these pros and cons is essential for effective resource management and energy planning.
• Evaluate the potential future developments in geothermal energy technology and their implications for sustainable energy practices.
  • Future developments in geothermal energy technology could include enhanced geothermal systems (EGS), which aim to expand resource availability by injecting water into hot rock formations to produce steam. This advancement could significantly increase geothermal capacity beyond traditional locations. As these technologies evolve, they hold the potential to contribute substantially to sustainable energy practices by providing a stable, clean energy source that complements other renewables. This integration could lead to a more diversified and resilient energy grid, reducing dependence on fossil fuels while helping to mitigate climate change.

Related terms

Tectonic Plates:

Massive sections of the Earth's crust that move and interact at their boundaries, often causing earthquakes and volcanic activity.

Volcano: An opening in the Earth's crust through which molten lava, ash, and gases escape, typically found in areas with significant geothermal energy.

Hydrothermal Resources: Natural resources containing hot water and steam that can be used for geothermal energy production.