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This question is about fuels and energy - AQA - GCSE Chemistry - Question 1 - 2021 - Paper 2
Question 1
This question is about fuels and energy. Figure 1 shows the percentage of electricity generated in the UK between 2007 and 2017 using: • oil • solar energy. 1.1 D... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:This question is about fuels and energy - AQA - GCSE Chemistry - Question 1 - 2021 - Paper 2
Step 1
Describe the changes in the percentage of electricity generated in the UK between 2007 and 2017 using: • oil
Answer
Between 2007 and 2017, the percentage of electricity generated from oil decreased significantly from about 1.3% in 2007 to 0.5% in 2017. This represents a reduction of approximately 0.8% over this period.
Step 2
Describe the changes in the percentage of electricity generated in the UK between 2007 and 2017 using: • solar energy
Answer
In contrast, the percentage of electricity generated from solar energy increased markedly from 0% in 2007 to 3.4% in 2017. This dramatic rise indicates a shift towards more sustainable energy sources over the decade.
Step 3
Explain the environmental effects of releasing these products of combustion into the atmosphere.
Answer
When oil burns, it produces carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming. This can lead to climate change, influencing extreme weather events and rising sea levels. Additionally, sulfur dioxide is released, which can cause acid rain, damaging ecosystems and human-made structures. This environmental degradation impacts biodiversity and can lead to respiratory issues in humans due to poor air quality.
Step 4
Suggest one reason why using solar energy is a more sustainable way of generating electricity than burning oil.
Answer
Solar energy is considered more sustainable because it is renewable and does not deplete natural resources. Unlike oil, which is finite, solar energy can be harnessed continuously as long as there is sunlight.
Step 5