Question 1: Define 'energy resource' and explain why the use of different resources has changed over the past century.

Answer: An energy resource is a source of energy used to produce power or heat. The use of different resources has changed due to factors such as technological advancements, economic considerations, environmental impacts, and resource availability.

Question 2: Identify two renewable energy sources that have seen increased use in recent decades and briefly explain why.

Answer: Solar and wind energy; increased use due to technological improvements, decreasing costs, and concerns about environmental impact.

Question 3: Which energy resource was predominantly used during the industrial revolution, and why?

Answer: Coal; because it was abundant, efficient for steam engines, and supported industrial development.

Question 4: Calculate the percentage increase in wind energy capacity if it grew from 10 GW to 50 GW over a decade.

Answer: Percentage increase = [(50 - 10) / 10] x 100 = 400%

Question 5: List three factors that have contributed to the decline in coal use in many countries.

Answer: Environmental concerns (air pollution, greenhouse gases), government policies and regulations, and the availability of cleaner energy alternatives.

Question 6: Fill in the blank: The increased adoption of renewable energy sources is primarily driven by the need to reduce __________ and combat climate change.

Answer: carbon emissions

Question 7: Describe a practical experiment to compare the efficiency of solar panels and wind turbines in converting sunlight and wind into electrical energy. (Note: focus on theoretical setup and safety precautions.)

Answer: Set up a solar panel and a wind turbine in an outdoor location with adequate sunlight and wind. Measure the electrical energy output over a fixed period under similar conditions. Ensure safety by avoiding wet environments for electrical equipment and securing all devices properly. Record data for analysis of efficiency based on energy output relative to input energy sources.

Question 8: Analyse the trend: If the global use of fossil fuels decreases by 2% annually while renewable energy increases by 5% annually, what is the expected difference in usage after 5 years assuming initial equal usage?

Answer: Fossil fuels: usage decreases by a factor of (1 - 0.02)^5 ≈ 0.9039 (around 90.4% of initial). Renewable energy: usage increases by a factor of (1 + 0.05)^5 ≈ 1.2763 (around 127.6% of initial). The difference after 5 years is approximately 127.6% - 90.4% = 37.2% more renewable energy usage than fossil fuels.

Question 9: Identify two global industry sectors significantly affected by changes in energy resource trends and describe how.

Answer: The transportation sector, shifting from petrol and diesel to electric vehicles powered by renewable energy; the electricity generation sector, moving from fossil fuels to renewables to reduce carbon emissions.

Question 10: Explain why technological advancements are crucial in changing trends in energy resource use.

Answer: They make renewable energy sources more efficient and cost-effective, enabling wider adoption and replacing less sustainable resources.

Question 11: Discuss the role of government policies in influencing trends in energy resource use and give an example.

Answer: Government policies can incentivise renewable energy development through subsidies, tax breaks, and regulations that limit fossil fuel emissions. An example is the UK’s commitment to phase out coal power plants by 2024 to promote cleaner energy sources.