Discussion Question
1. How much of our global energy supply do nuclear power, bioenergy, and hydroelectric power contribute? How much of our global electricity do these three conventional energy alternatives generate?
2. Describe how nuclear fission works. How do nuclear plant engineers control fission and prevent a runaway chain reaction?
3. List several concerns about the disposal of radioactive waste. What has been done so far about its disposal?
4. Describe two biofuels, where each comes from, and how each is used.
5. What factors and concerns are causing renewable energy use to expand? Which two renewable sources are experiencing the most rapid growth?
6. Describe several environmental and economic advantages of solar power. What are some disadvantages?
7. How do modern wind turbines generate electricity? How does wind speed affect the process? What factors affect where we place wind turbines?
8. Define geothermal energy, and explain three main ways in which it is obtained and used. Describe one sense in which it is renewable and one sense in which it is not
9. Describe five major methods of managing waste. Why do we practice waste management?