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renewable energy

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Definition

Renewable energy is energy that is derived from natural resources that are replenished over relatively short timescales. This means that renewable energy sources are sustainable, as they can be used indefinitely without depleting the resource.

Some of the most common renewable energy sources include solar energy, wind energy, hydropower, geothermal energy, and biomass. Solar energy is the energy that comes from the sun. Wind energy is the energy that comes from the wind. Hydropower is the energy that comes from flowing water. Geothermal energy is the energy that comes from the heat of the Earth. Biomass is the energy that comes from plant and animal matter.

Renewable energy is becoming increasingly important as a way to meet our growing energy needs. It is a clean and sustainable source of energy that does not produce greenhouse gases. Renewable energy is also a domestic source of energy, which means that we do not have to rely on imports from other countries.

How can the word be used?

The government is investing in renewable energy to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.

renewable energy

Different forms of the word

Noun:

  • energy that is derived from sources that are naturally replenished, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.
  • The word "renewable energy" is a compound word, made up of the words "renewable" and "energy".

Adjective:

  • of or relating to renewable energy.

Etymology

The word "renewable" comes from the Latin word "renovare", which means "to make new".

The word "energy" comes from the Greek word "energeia", which means "activity".

The first recorded use of the word "renewable energy" was in the 1970s.

Question

What types of renewable energy are there?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Define the term "renewable energy" and provide an example of a renewable energy source. Explain the environmental benefits of using renewable energy in comparison to non-renewable sources.

Answer:

Renewable energy refers to energy derived from naturally replenished sources that are virtually inexhaustible. Unlike fossil fuels, which are finite and deplete over time, renewable energy sources can be harnessed without depleting their availability. One example of a renewable energy source is solar energy. Solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity using photovoltaic cells.

The environmental benefits of using renewable energy are significant. Unlike non-renewable sources like coal, oil, and natural gas, which release greenhouse gases and pollutants when burned, renewable sources generate minimal to no emissions during operation. This reduces air pollution, mitigates climate change, and promotes cleaner air quality.

Renewable energy also conserves natural resources and minimises ecological disruption. For instance, hydroelectric power generates electricity by harnessing the energy of flowing water, avoiding the extraction and combustion of fossil fuels. Similarly, wind power utilises the kinetic energy of wind to generate electricity, circumventing the need for resource-intensive mining and drilling.

By embracing renewable energy sources, societies can transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy systems, reducing their reliance on finite fossil fuels and decreasing their environmental impact. This shift not only addresses energy security concerns but also contributes to a healthier planet for present and future generations.