The UK government plans to stop using coal-fired power stations by 2025 - AQA - GCSE Physics - Question 5 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 5
The UK government plans to stop using coal-fired power stations by 2025.
Explain one environmental problem caused when electricity is generated by burning coal.
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Worked Solution & Example Answer:The UK government plans to stop using coal-fired power stations by 2025 - AQA - GCSE Physics - Question 5 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain one environmental problem caused when electricity is generated by burning coal.
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Answer
One significant environmental problem caused by burning coal for electricity generation is the release of carbon dioxide (CO₂). This greenhouse gas contributes to global warming, which leads to climate change and adverse environmental impacts, such as extreme weather events and rising sea levels.
Step 2
Give two renewable energy resources that could make up the 'Other' energy resources in Figure 6.
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Answer
Wind
Hydro
Step 3
Determine the percentage of electricity generated in nuclear power stations that day.
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Answer
Using data from Figure 6, the percentage of electricity generated in nuclear power stations is calculated as follows: There are 28% nuclear power stations out of 100% total energy resources.
Step 4
What was the difference between the maximum demand and minimum demand for electricity during this day?
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Answer
The maximum demand was 37,500 MW and the minimum demand was 25,000 MW. The difference between the two is calculated as: Difference = 37,500 MW - 25,000 MW = 12,500 MW.
Step 5
Explain why solar power could have met the demand if there were enough solar panels installed in the UK.
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Answer
Solar panels generate electricity from sunlight. During the hours of increased electricity demand, particularly between 06:00 and 09:00, the amount of solar power generated can increase as the sun rises, providing a substantial source of energy. If there were enough solar panels, they could generate sufficient electricity to meet the rising demand during these hours.
