Photo AI
Energy Production by Fuel in 1995 and 2010, EU (27) 1995 20% 9% 24% 18% 29% 2010 20% 28% 12% X 20% Eurostat, April 2013 Examine the charts above and answer each of the following questions - Leaving Cert Geography - Question A - 2015
Question A
Energy Production by Fuel in 1995 and 2010, EU (27) 1995 20% 9% 24% 18% 29% 2010 20% 28% 12% X 20% ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Energy Production by Fuel in 1995 and 2010, EU (27) 1995 20% 9% 24% 18% 29% 2010 20% 28% 12% X 20% Eurostat, April 2013 Examine the charts above and answer each of the following questions - Leaving Cert Geography - Question A - 2015
Step 1
Calculate X, the percentage of energy produced by gas in 2010.
Answer
To calculate the percentage of energy produced by gas in 2010, we use the total percentages of all fuels in the chart and ensure they sum to 100%. From the chart, in 2010, we have:
- Coal: 20%
- Oil: 28%
- Nuclear: 12%
- Renewables: 20%
Let: X = 100 ext{%} - (20 ext{%} + 28 ext{%} + 12 ext{%} + 20 ext{%})
Calculating gives us: X = 100 ext{%} - 80 ext{%} = 20 ext{%}
Therefore, the percentage of energy produced by gas in 2010 is 20%.
Step 2
Step 3
Explain briefly why energy production using this fuel type increased.
Answer
1. Environmental Concerns: The increasing awareness of climate change and the push for cleaner energy sources has led to a rise in investment in renewable energy technologies. Governments and organizations are striving to reduce carbon emissions, thereby boosting renewable energy production.
2. Technological Advancements: The advancement in technology related to renewable energies such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power has made these sources more efficient and cost-effective, encouraging their adoption and production in the energy sector.
Step 4
Step 5
State two effects of burning fossil fuels on the environment.
Answer
1. Air Pollution: Burning fossil fuels releases harmful pollutants, including carbon dioxide (CO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and nitrogen oxides (NOx), contributing to air quality degradation and health issues.
2. Climate Change: The greenhouse gases emitted from burning fossil fuels trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to global warming and subsequent climate changes, including extreme weather patterns.