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Study Diagram Q4A - Scottish Highers Geography - Question 4 - 2019
Question 4
Study Diagram Q4A. (i) Describe the changes shown in Diagram Q4A and (ii) suggest reasons for the trends in energy consumption in developed countries. Look at Diagr... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Study Diagram Q4A - Scottish Highers Geography - Question 4 - 2019
Step 1
Describe the changes shown in Diagram Q4A
Answer
From 1980 to 1990, energy consumption in developed countries shows a modest increase from around 170 to approximately 205 million BTUs per capita. From 1990 to 2010, the trend continues with a steady rise, reaching about 250 million BTUs per capita. The projection for 2030 indicates a further gradual increase, ultimately reaching approximately 280 million BTUs per capita. The overall trend indicates a consistent upward path in energy consumption over these decades, with a distinct acceleration evident in the early 2000s.
The transition from actual to projected consumption illustrates an anticipated steady rise as technological advancements and environmental policies begin to impact consumption patterns.
Step 2
suggest reasons for the trends in energy consumption in developed countries
Answer
The increase in energy consumption in developed countries can be attributed to several factors:
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Increased Demand for Energy: As populations grow and economies develop, the demand for energy increases significantly, leading households and industries to consume more energy.
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Rapid Urbanization: More people moving to urban areas means higher energy consumption due to increased residential occupancy and industrial demands for energy.
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Technological Advancements: New technology in homes, such as more energy-intensive appliances and heating systems, leads to higher energy use.
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Improved Energy Efficiency: While there is greater consumption overall, advancements in energy efficiency technologies mean that per capita energy intensity may not rise as fast as total consumption.
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Policy Changes: Government policies promoting energy availability and consumption may also encourage usage, particularly in developing infrastructure and improving public services.
Step 3
Comment on the effectiveness of wind power, or any other renewable source of energy you have studied, in meeting the energy demands of a country
Answer
Wind power is an increasingly viable option for meeting energy demands due to its sustainability and capacity for large-scale electricity generation. The effectiveness of wind farms, such as those depicted in Diagram Q4B, includes several advantages:
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Renewability: Wind energy is a renewable resource, meaning it is sustainable and will not run out in the foreseeable future, providing a continuous energy supply.
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Reduction in Carbon Emissions: Utilizing wind power significantly lowers greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels, addressing climate change concerns.
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Economic Benefits: Wind energy creates job opportunities in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance of turbines, boosting local economies.
However, there are also limitations:
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Intermittency: Wind power is dependent on wind availability, which can be inconsistent, requiring backup sources of energy.
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Land Use: Wind farms require significant amounts of land which may compete with agricultural or conservation needs.
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Infrastructure Requirements: Developing sufficient infrastructure to harness and distribute wind energy can involve high initial costs.
Overall, while wind power may not be the sole solution to energy demands, it plays a crucial role in a diversified energy strategy for sustainable development.