Using Figures 10a, 10b, and 10c and your own knowledge, assess the relationship between energy supply and physical geography - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 5 - 2019 - Paper 2

The interaction between energy supply and physical geography is a complex and multifaceted issue that can be examined through various factors such as geography, climate, and available natural resources.

Physical Geography and Energy Sources

Countries like Norway utilize hydroelectricity extensively due to their mountainous terrain and abundant rainfall. Figures 10a and 10c highlight this relationship; Norway's high reliance on hydroelectric power corresponds with its significant annual precipitation levels depicted in Figure 10c. In contrast, countries with less precipitation may find alternative energy sources such as nuclear or solar power more viable.

Climate Influence on Energy Production

Solar energy generation is dependent on the availability of sunlight, which varies geographically. For instance, countries located further south may receive larger amounts of daylight hours, which could enhance their solar energy production potential. This is evident in Spain and Italy, which show more significant contributions from solar energy in Figure 10a.

Geological Factors

The geological landscape of a country also plays a critical role in determining energy sources. For example, countries with large sedimentary basins, like the UK, have access to fossil fuels such as coal and oil. Figure 10b, depicting the relief map, indicates that such geological formations often dictate where energy resources are located.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the relationship between energy supply and physical geography is significant. Regions with appropriate geographical and climatic conditions tend to rely more heavily on renewable energy sources like hydroelectric or solar power, whereas areas lacking these resources may depend more on fossil fuels or nuclear energy. Thus, energy strategies must consider these geographical factors to optimize energy production.