Despite the many disadvantages of using fossil fuels, we continue to use them. Coal is burned to generate electricity.
Oil and natural gas are abundant in Alberta and we use it, maybe more than we should. Alternatives to using these
non-renewable resources need to be utilized, so that future generations of Albertans can continue to thrive in
our beautiful province.
It's Hot In Here
Programable thermostats and other technologies have provided many ways to conserve energy and save money. A recirculating
hot water system (Figure 3.41, p. 252) saves energy and produces instant hot water at all times.
It's Cold In Here
Refridgerators and air conditioners are thermal energy movers. A thermal energy mover is a device that transfers thermal energy from one
location to another at a different temperature. The operation of these devices require refrigerants (liquids that
evaporate easily at low temperatures) to remove thermal energy from food. As the refrigerant evaporates, it absorbs
the thermal energy from the food so it cools down. This warmed gas is then compressed and releases the thermal
energy into the room.
Danger: Thermal Energy
Some harmful effects of thermal energy are:
burning ourselves on a hot utensil (us)
forest fires (our envirnment)
burning houses (our belongings)
Storage and use of fossil fuels can pose a forest fire risk, but also can pollute
the environment, by leaking into the groundwater and soil.
By-Products of Thermal Energy Use
Not all the dangers of using thermal energy are as obvious as the ones already discussed.
One of the products (carbon dioxide) that is
released from the burning of fossil fuels is a greenhouse gas, which traps heat energy in our atmosphere and leads
to global warming.
Sulfur-dioxide is released when coal and natural
gas are burned. This gas is an irritant to the eyes, nose and throat.
Carbon monoxide is produced when a fire burns without
enough oxygen. It is clearless, odourless and very lethal. It hinders the brain's reasoning ability and can kill
you.
Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors should be installed in every building to protect
the people from being overcome by these lethal gases.
Topic Review p. 256
Wrap-Up (Topics 7 - 8) p. 257
UNIT REVIEW pgs. 262 - 265 |