All Flashcards
What is the effect of drilling for geothermal resources on land stability?
Can cause land subsidence or trigger seismic activity in certain areas.
What is the effect of releasing hydrogen sulfide from geothermal plants?
It can cause air pollution and has a distinct, unpleasant odor.
What is the impact of geothermal energy on greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels?
Generally lower emissions, but some methane and carbon dioxide can still be released.
How does geothermal energy promote sustainability?
Provides renewable energy source, reduces fossil fuel dependence.
How does reinjecting water promote sustainability?
Maintains reservoir pressure, reduces water waste.
Why is geothermal energy considered renewable?
Earth continuously produces internal heat.
How do geothermal power plants access heat?
Wells drilled to underground hot water/steam reservoirs.
What drives the turbine in a geothermal plant?
Steam from heated water spins the turbine.
What heats the water in geothermal reservoirs?
Earth's core heat, radioactive decay, residual heat.
What is the environmental benefit of geothermal energy?
Reduced reliance on fossil fuels, low emissions during operation.
What are the limitations of geothermal energy?
Expensive to build, location limitations, releases some GHGs.