Which of the following methods of energy production can lead to greenh...
Concept;
- The term ‘Greenhouse effect’ has been derived from a phenomenon that occurs in a greenhouse.
- The greenhouse effect is a naturally occurring phenomenon.
- It is responsible for heating of Earth’s surface and atmosphere.
- The absorption of solar radiation with the help of greenhouse gases (Carbon dioxide and Methane etc.) is called the greenhouse effect.
- An increase in the level of greenhouse gases has led to considerable heating of Earth leading to global warming.
Explanation:
Tidal Energy:
- Due to the gravitational pull of mainly the moon on the spinning earth, the level of water in the sea rises and falls.
- This phenomenon is called high and low tides and the difference in sea levels gives us tidal energy.
- Tidal energy is harnessed by constructing a dam across a narrow opening to the sea.
Geothermal Energy:
- Due to geological changes, molten rocks formed in the deeper hot regions of the earth’s crust are pushed upward and trapped in certain regions called ‘hot spots'.
- When underground water comes in contact with the hot spot, steam is generated.
- The steam trapped in rocks is routed through a pipe to a turbine and used to generate electricity.
Wind Energy:
- To generate electricity, the rotatory motion of the windmill is used to turn the turbine of the electric generator.
- Generally, the kinetic energy of wind changed into electrical energy.
Biogas:
- Cow-dung, various plant materials like the residue after harvesting the crops, vegetable waste, and sewage are decomposed in the absence of oxygen to give bio-gas.
- Biogas is an excellent fuel as it contains up to 75% methane.
- Methane is the major component of Greenhouse gas.
Thus, biogas can lead to the greenhouse effect.
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Which of the following methods of energy production can lead to greenh...
Biogas and Greenhouse Effect:
Biogas production can lead to the greenhouse effect due to the release of methane gas during the decomposition of organic matter. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that has a much higher global warming potential compared to carbon dioxide.
How Biogas Production Contributes to the Greenhouse Effect:
- When organic waste such as food scraps, manure, or crop residues decompose in an anaerobic environment, methane gas is produced as a byproduct.
- Methane is then released into the atmosphere during the biogas production process, either intentionally for energy generation or unintentionally as a byproduct of waste decomposition.
- Once released, methane can trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect and global warming.
Impact of Biogas Production on Climate Change:
- The greenhouse effect caused by methane emissions from biogas production can contribute to climate change by trapping heat in the atmosphere.
- This can lead to rising global temperatures, changes in weather patterns, and other environmental impacts.
- In addition, the production and use of biogas can also result in other environmental concerns such as water pollution and the depletion of natural resources.
Conclusion:
While biogas production can be a renewable energy source that helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels, it is important to consider its potential impact on the environment, particularly its contribution to the greenhouse effect through methane emissions. Proper management and mitigation strategies are essential to minimize the environmental impact of biogas production.