Question 1: Define a non-renewable energy resource and give two examples.

Answer: A non-renewable energy resource is a resource that cannot be replenished at the same rate it is used. Examples include coal and oil.

Question 2: Explain the process by which fossil fuels release energy when burned.

Answer: Fossil fuels release energy through combustion, where chemical energy is converted into thermal energy, which can then be used to generate electricity or power engines.

Question 1: A coal-fired power station converts 40 MW of chemical energy into electrical energy with an efficiency of 35%. How much chemical energy is used per hour?

Answer: Answer: (40 MW / 0.35) × 3600 seconds = approximately 411,429 MJ.

Question 2: If a litre of petrol releases approximately 34.2 MJ of energy when burned, how many litres are needed to provide 200 MJ?

Answer: Answer: 200 MJ / 34.2 MJ/litre ≈ 5.85 litres.

Question 1: Describe a simple experimental method to investigate the calorific value of a fuel. Include the variables you would control.

Answer: A typical method involves burning a known mass of fuel beneath a calorimeter containing water, measuring the temperature increase of the water. Variables to control include the mass of fuel, initial water temperature, and environmental conditions.

Question 1: A country’s coal consumption increased from 50 million tonnes in 2010 to 70 million tonnes in 2020. Calculate the percentage increase in coal consumption over this period.

Answer: Percentage increase = [(70 - 50) / 50] × 100% = 40%.

Question 2: Discuss the environmental implications of increased reliance on non-renewable energy sources based on recent data trends.

Answer: Increased reliance on non-renewable energy sources leads to higher greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and depletion of finite resources, contributing to climate change and environmental degradation.

Question 1: Explain how the burning of fossil fuels contributes to global warming. (6 marks)

Answer: Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat, leading to an increase in Earth's average temperature, which causes climate change and global warming.

Question 2: Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of relying on non-renewable energy sources for electricity generation.

Answer: Advantages include high energy density, established infrastructure, and reliable supply. Disadvantages involve finite resources, environmental pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and contribution to climate change.

Question 1: Describe how the decline of coal mining might impact local economies and energy supplies.

Answer: Decline in coal mining can lead to job losses and economic downturns in regions dependent on coal. It may also prompt a shift to alternative energy sources, affecting energy security and requiring infrastructure changes.

Question 2: Discuss the role of non-renewable energy sources in current technological developments and industry.

Answer: Non-renewable energy sources are crucial for powering industries, transportation, and electricity generation due to their high energy density and existing infrastructure. However, there is increasing pressure to develop cleaner technologies to reduce environmental impact.