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Non-Renewable Energy Sources Simplified Revision Notes

Revision notes with simplified explanations to understand Non-Renewable Energy Sources quickly and effectively.

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Non-renewable Energy Sources

Introduction

  • Non-renewable energy sources are finite and unsustainable sources of energy.
  • They have been a primary source of energy since the Industrial Revolution.

Historical Perspective

  • Dependence on fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and gas, escalated during the Industrial Revolution.
  • These fuels powered the rapid industrialisation of the 18th and 19th centuries.

Global Energy Consumption (2012)

  • In 2012, approximately 82% of global energy consumption came from non-renewable fossil fuels.
  • This high dependence on finite resources raises concerns about long-term sustainability.

Types of Non-renewable Energy

  • Non-renewable energy sources include coal, oil, and natural gas.
  • These fuels are burned to generate electricity, heat, and power various industries.

The Pie Chart (2014)

Pie Chart

  • A pie chart from 2014 illustrates the types of energy sources used worldwide.
  • It highlights the significant contribution of non-renewable energy sources.

The UK's Primary Energy Use

  • The UK, like many countries, relies heavily on non-renewable energy sources for its primary energy needs.
  • This includes electricity generation, transportation, and heating.

Non-renewable Energy Sources

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Finite Stock and Depletion

  • Non-renewable energy sources are finite, meaning they will eventually run out.
  • As they deplete, extracting and using them becomes more challenging and costly.

Environmental Impact

  • The burning of non-renewable fuels releases greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change.
  • Extraction processes can also harm ecosystems and landscapes.

Transition to Renewable Energy

  • There is a global shift towards renewable energy sources to reduce reliance on non-renewables.
  • This transition aims to mitigate environmental impacts and ensure a sustainable energy future.
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Summary

  • Non-renewable energy sources, primarily fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas, have been the dominant energy sources since the Industrial Revolution.
  • However, their finite nature, environmental impact, and the need for sustainability are driving efforts to transition to renewable energy sources for a more secure and environmentally friendly energy future.
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