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
Examiner Tip
Make sure you're familiar with the advantages and disadvantages of large scale electricity production from renewable and non-renewable energy sources, as this is a common exam question!
