Comparing Energy Resources (AQA GCSE Physics)

Comparing Energy Resources

• Each energy resource has various advantages and disadvantages associated with it

• A renewable energy resource is one that is replenished at a faster rate than the rate at which it is being used

  • As a result of this, renewable energy resources will not run out

• A reliable energy resource is one that can produce energy at any time

• Non-reliable resources can only produce energy some of the time (e.g. when it’s windy)

• The table below shows a comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of the different energy resources:

• The main reasons why fusion is not currently used as a source of power on Earth are the difficulties in achieving (and maintaining)

  • High temperatures

  • High pressures

• Whilst physicists have been able to attain the temperatures and pressure needed, there are difficulties in containing them, which inevitably means that only a small amount of fusion can take place

  • Such a small rate of fusion is not useful for current energy needs

• Creating the temperatures needed for fusion requires a great deal of energy

  • Hence, physicists are still a long way from the point where they will produce more energy from fusion than the energy needed to start it