Renewable Energy Sources: A Comprehensive Guide to Solar, Tidal, and OTEC Technologies
Conventional and Non-Conventional Energy Sources
Conventional Energy Sources: Include coal, lignite, oil, natural gas, and hydroelectric and nuclear fuels. They are generally non-renewable, finite, and cause pollution when used. Examples: Coal, natural gas, petroleum.
Non-Conventional Energy Sources: Include solar, wind, geothermal, tidal, and biomass energy. These are renewable, inexhaustible, and environmentally friendly. Examples: Solar energy, wind energy, geothermal energy
Advantages of Conventional
Read MoreGlacial Morphology: Formation and Features of Glaciers
Glacial Morphology
Glaciers
Glaciers can be defined as large natural accumulations of ice located on land that are animated by a translational motion.
Valley Glaciers and Alpine Glaciers
At high altitudes, glaciers can form because the temperature is low and the mountains receive a large amount of rainfall. Glaciers formed in high mountains are characteristically long and narrow because they occupy valleys formed earlier. They carry plastic ice formed at higher altitudes to lower levels where the temperature
Read MoreEolian Deflation and Dune Formation
Eolian Deflation
Eolian deflation refers to the process where loose particles on the soil surface are removed by wind. This process involves the wind lifting and transporting these particles, leaving behind a surface that is often lower than the original. Deflation occurs wherever the ground is dry and covered with loose particles, typically in arid regions where vegetation cover is sparse.
The absence of plant cover exposes the soil to the full force of the wind, making it susceptible to deflation.
Read MoreCoastal Morphology and Types
Coastal Morphology
Coastal morphology is the study of the relief caused by waves.
Wave Dynamics
- Swash (Uprush): After a wave breaks, turbulent, foamy water rushes up the beach. This powerful energy source moves sand and gravel inland.
- Backwash: As the swash loses energy, water flows back down the beach. Some water disappears underground, while the rest carries gravel and sand back towards the sea.
Types of Waves
- Giant Waves (Tsunami): These waves, caused by earthquakes or volcanic eruptions, can reach
Climate Change, Pollution, and Biodiversity Loss: Understanding the Environmental Crisis
What is the Greenhouse Effect?
The greenhouse effect is a natural phenomenon that has allowed life to exist on Earth. The atmosphere, a layer of gases surrounding the planet, allows some solar rays to enter and warm the Earth while reflecting others back into space. This process helps maintain a habitable temperature on the planet.
The Problem with the Greenhouse Effect
Human activities have increased the amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere. These gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2)
Read MoreWater Pollution and the Information Society: A Comprehensive Overview
Water Pollution
Causes and Effects of Water Contamination
The increasing global population and rising industrial and individual demands are placing a significant strain on water resources. The quality of natural freshwater sources like rivers, lakes, and aquifers is determined by factors such as dissolved oxygen levels, the presence of organic matter, and chemical reactions occurring during water movement. Water contamination can arise from various sources:
- Microorganisms: Discharge of untreated urban