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 relationship between energy supply and physical geography is evident when analyzing Figures 10a, 10b, and 10c.

1. Energy Sources by Geography

Geographical factors significantly influence energy resources. For instance, countries like Norway and Iceland rely heavily on hydropower due to their abundant water resources and mountainous terrains, as shown in Figure 10b. This is facilitated by the presence of rivers and high rainfall, as depicted in Figure 10c, which records high annual precipitation in these regions.

2. Climate and Renewable Energy

Climate is also a crucial factor. Countries with ample sunlight such as Spain are more inclined to invest in solar energy. However, Spain's geographical position results in varied energy mixes. The dry regions with limited rainfall may restrict hydroelectric generation, leading to a shift towards solar energy to meet demands.

3. Influence of Geology on Energy Supply

The geological composition of a region can dictate the availability of fossil fuels. For example, countries like the UK have coal resources that influence their energy production mix. The geology can also lead to other forms of renewable energy, such as geothermal energy, which is abundant in regions with volcanic activity.

4. Summary of Findings

Overall, the assessment indicates that physical geography including climate, topography, and geological conditions strongly correlate with the energy supplies in different European nations. The interplay of these factors results in diverse energy mixes across the continent, with countries leveraging their geographical advantages for energy generation.