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Dec 6, 2023

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Pena 1 Vanessa M. Pena Introduction to Environmental Science Prof. Lemes November 28, 2023 Extra Credit 1. Provide a thorough explanation of how biofuel works based on the video Biofuels 101 According to the "Biofuels 101" video, biofuels are combustible fuels made from biomass. They are typically used to refer to liquid fuels like ethanol and biodiesel that are used in place of transportation fuels like jet fuel, diesel, and gasoline. Biodiesel is an oil created by extracting naturally existing oils from plants and seeds, which is burned in diesel engines or combined with diesel fuel. Ethanol is an alcohol manufactured by fermentation that is used as an additive or substitute for gasoline. Based on the kind of feedstock used to make them, biofuels can be divided into three categories: first-generation biofuels are made from food crops, second-generation biofuels are made from cellulosic materials like wood and grasses, and third-generation biofuels are made from algae to produce lipids. The video also mentions advanced biofuels as a relatively new technological field. 2. Provide a thorough explanation of how Hydropower works based on the video Hydropower 101 The video “Hydropower 101” hydroelectricity—also known as hydropower—is the process of converting the energy of flowing water into electrical power. Because the sun continuously renews the water cycle, it is seen as a renewable energy source. An electromagnetic generator is coupled to a turbine, which generates electricity when the

Pena 2 turbine rotates due to the mechanical energy generated by moving water. The two primary methods of producing hydroelectricity are run-of-river systems and dams. Hydroelectric dams utilize the potential energy from dammed water to produce electricity. A dam is a large barrier constructed to raise the level of water and control its flow. The elevation created by the dam creates gravitational force for turning the turbine when water is released. Some dams also contain an additional reservoir at their base where water is stored to be pumped to the higher reservoir for release when electricity is in demand. This is referred to as pumped storage hydro. The second form of hydroelectricity production is run-of-river hydro, which does not involve large dams. Instead, it uses the natural flow of the river to generate electricity. This method has less impact on the environment compared to traditional dam-based hydropower. In summary, hydropower harnesses the energy of flowing water to produce electricity, offering a renewable and sustainable source of energy with different methods of implementation, such as dams and run-of-river systems. 3. Provide a thorough explanation of how Geothermal power works (based on the video Geothermal 101 Geothermal power refers to producing energy from the internal heat of the Earth, which is generated from the radioactive decay of minerals and continual heat loss from the Earth's original formation. Geothermal wells are drilled into the Earth's crust at a depth of approximately 3 to 10 kilometers. The heat is extracted using water and steam, and in most cases, it is drawn from the earth using these mediums.

Pena 3 Hot water from the earth can be directly extracted to heat homes and buildings by circulating the hot water through buildings or by pumping it through a heat exchanger that transfers the heat to the building. Additionally, geothermal heat can be used to produce electricity in a geothermal power plant. Electricity is generated when geothermal heat produces steam that turns turbines on a generator. The major regions of geothermal development are in the most volcanically and tectonically active regions of the world. Although geothermal energy is currently a small player in the world's energy mix, one of its key advantages is its reliability and consistent power generation, which means it can provide baseload electricity. Concerns with geothermal include the accidental release of CO2. 4. Provide a thorough explanation of how solar power works based on the video Sola Power 101 Based on the information from the video "Solar power 101: How does solar energy work?" and other search results, solar power works by harnessing the energy from the sun's rays and converting it into electricity. The process involves the use of solar panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels, which directly convert sunlight into electric current. 5. Provide a thorough explanation of how wind power works (based on the video All About Wind Energy For humans, electricity is immensely crucial. We use it to run our automobiles, trains, homes, and cities. Using a generator is one of the primary methods humans use to generate power. An apparatus that transforms mechanical

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Pena 4 kinetic energy into electrical energy is a generator. A wind turbine is a massive windmill that rotates its blades using the kinetic energy of the wind. The energy is converted into electrical energy by the generator that is spun by the blades. A wind farm is typically made up of several wind turbines clustered together, especially in areas with strong winds. Enough electricity can be generated by wind farms to run entire cities. Being a clean, renewable energy source is one of wind energy's main advantages. It doesn't involve burning fuel and doesn't release any hazardous emissions into the atmosphere. The use of wind energy has certain drawbacks. Flying animals such as bats and birds can be killed or injured by the massive rotating blades of a wind turbine. They can make loud noises that can annoy people and damage natural ecosystems. Furthermore, wind turbine repairs might be costly if they are damaged. 6. Based on what you learned from Question 1 through 5, explain [at least 04 (four) paragraphs] which alternatives to fossil fuels would you propose (and which alternatives to fossil fuels you do not recommend) for reducing the use of fossil fuels in Miami, FL? Based on the information gathered, several alternative energy sources can be proposed for reducing the use of fossil fuels in Miami, FL. Given the state's significant solar energy potential and substantial biomass resources, solar power and biofuels are viable alternatives to fossil fuels. Solar power, which accounts for a mere 2.3 % of net electricity generation in Florida, has the potential for significant expansion (Energy Information Administration). The state's nickname, the "Sunshine State," underscores its solar energy potential, making solar power a

Pena 5 promising alternative to fossil fuels. Additionally, according to the website of the University of Miami, it is actively researching renewable energy outlets, indicating a growing interest in solar energy as an alternative to fossil fuels. Biofuels, including ethanol and biodiesel, are derived from organic materials such as food crops, wood, grasses, and algae. Given the state's substantial biomass resources, biofuels can be a viable alternative to fossil fuels for transportation and electricity generation. The use of biofuels can help reduce the reliance on petroleum in the transportation sector, which accounts for about nine-tenths of the petroleum consumed in Florida. Furthermore, the University of Miami's research into organic photovoltaics and renewable energy outlets suggests a growing interest in biofuels as an alternative to fossil fuels. While wind power is a viable alternative energy source, it may not be as suitable for Miami, FL, as solar power, and biofuels due to the state's significant solar energy potential and substantial biomass resources. Wind power is not as prominently mentioned in the search results in the context of South Florida, and the state's solar energy potential is particularly emphasized. Therefore, while wind power is a valuable alternative energy source in general, it may not be the most suitable option for reducing the use of fossil fuels in Miami, FL based on the available information. In conclusion, solar power and biofuels are the most appropriate alternative energy sources for reducing the use of fossil fuels in Miami, FL. Given the state's significant solar energy potential and substantial biomass resources, these alternatives have the potential to make a significant contribution to reducing the reliance on fossil fuels in the region. Additionally, ongoing research and initiatives

Pena 6 at the University of Miami underscore the growing interest in these alternative energy sources, further supporting their viability for the region. 7. Go to Google Earth and explore multiple locations in the US. Then, select a location in the US (outside FL) and explain [at least four (04) paragraphs] which alternatives to fossil fuels would you propose (and which alternatives to fossil fuels you do not recommend) for reducing the use of fossil fuels on the selected location. Answer this question based on what you learned from Question 1 through 5 For a selected location in the US, such as New York, several alternatives to fossil fuels can be proposed to reduce their use and promote sustainable energy sources. Based on the information gathered, the primary alternatives to fossil fuels are renewable energy, nuclear power, hydrogen, biomass, and geothermal energy. Among these alternatives, solar energy and wind energy stand out as promising options for reducing the use of fossil fuels in New York. Solar power, which is the converting of energy from the sun into reliable electricity, has been one of the leading new energy sources and is a popular alternative energy source from fossil fuels. According to Robeco, the state of New York has been actively investing in solar energy, with initiatives such as the NY-Sun program, which aims to make solar energy more accessible and affordable for residents and businesses. Additionally, wind energy, which involves harnessing the kinetic energy of moving air to generate electricity, has significant potential in New York due to its coastal areas and favorable wind conditions. While solar and wind energy are promising alternatives, nuclear power and hydrogen are not recommended as primary alternatives to fossil fuels for New York. Nuclear power, while clean, has safety and waste disposal concerns, and the public

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Pena 7 perception of nuclear energy may not be favorable. Similarly, hydrogen, while seen as an alternative fuel for heavy transport, relies on existing supplies of energy to be created and may not be as feasible for widespread use in New York. It is important to consider public opinion and preferences regarding the transition to alternative energy sources. According to a Pew Research Center report, a significant share of Americans favors a mix of energy sources, including renewable energy sources, along with oil, coal, and natural gas. This suggests that a balanced approach to energy transition may be more widely accepted, making solar power and wind energy viable options for reducing the use of fossil fuels in New York. In conclusion, solar power and wind energy are the most appropriate alternatives to fossil fuels for reducing their use in New York. These alternatives have the potential to contribute significantly to reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and promoting a more sustainable energy mix. However, it is essential to consider the specific regional conditions, public preferences, and ongoing initiatives to determine the most suitable energy transition strategy for New York.

Pena 8 Sources “U.S. Energy Information Administration - EIA - Independent Statistics and Analysis.” EIA , www.eia.gov/state/analysis.php?sid=FL . Accessed 28 Nov. 2023. “Renewable Energy - University of Miami Special Report: Climate Change.” University of Miami Special Report: Climate Change - University of Miami Special Report: Climate Change , 27 Apr. 2023, https://climate.miami.edu/renewable- energy/index.html “1. What Americans Think about an Energy Transition from Fossil Fuels to Renewables.” Pew Research Center Science & Society , Pew Research Center, 28 June 2023, www.pewresearch.org/science/2023/06/28/what-americans-think-about-an-energy- transition-from-fossil-fuels-to-renewables/ . “Sustainable Investing - Fossil Fuel Alternatives.” Robeco.Com - The Investment Engineers , 7 Mar. 2023, www.robeco.com/en-us/glossary/sustainable- investing/fossil-fuel-alternatives .

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