All Flashcards
Describe the process of coal formation.
Decomposed plant matter builds up over millions of years, transforming into coal under pressure and heat.
Describe the process of oil formation.
Heat and pressure act on aquatic organisms over millions of years, transforming them into oil.
Describe the process of natural gas formation.
Organic matter is trapped under sedimentary layers and transforms into natural gas, mostly methane.
Outline the steps of hydraulic fracturing.
Drill into rock, inject fluid (water, sand, chemicals), create fractures, release trapped oil and gas.
Describe complete combustion.
Fuel + Oxygen -> Heat + Light + Water Vapor (ideal scenario).
Describe incomplete combustion.
Fuel + Oxygen -> Heat + Light + Carbon Monoxide + Soot (produces pollutants).
Why are fossil fuels non-renewable?
They take millions of years to form.
What is the significance of combustion?
Releases energy from fossil fuels, but also pollutants.
Describe complete combustion.
Ideal scenario, produces non-toxic water vapor and heat.
Describe incomplete combustion.
Produces pollutants like carbon monoxide (CO) and soot.
Why is fracking controversial?
Significant environmental risks, including groundwater contamination and earthquakes.
Why is coal considered the 'dirtiest' fossil fuel?
Releases more pollutants (CO2, NOx, SO2, particulates) than oil or natural gas.
Why is natural gas considered the 'cleanest' fossil fuel?
Produces fewer pollutants than coal or oil when burned.
How do greenhouse gases contribute to climate change?
Trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to global warming.
What are the impacts of oil spills?
Devastating to marine life and ecosystems.
Why is resource depletion a concern with fossil fuels?
Fossil fuels are non-renewable and being used faster than they can be replenished.
What are the effects of burning coal?
Releases CO2, NOx, SO2, particulates, contributing to air pollution and climate change.
What are the effects of burning oil?
Releases greenhouse gases like carbon monoxide (CO) and other pollutants.
What are the effects of burning natural gas?
Releases greenhouse gases, particularly methane.
What are the effects of fracking?
Groundwater contamination, increased earthquake risk, methane leaks, habitat disruption.
What is the relationship between fossil fuel combustion and climate change?
Combustion releases greenhouse gases, trapping heat and causing global warming.
What is the relationship between SO2/NOx emissions and acid rain?
SO2 and NOx react with water to form acid rain.