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The president of South Africa has recently mentioned the proposed development of smart cities (powered by modern technology) - NSC Marine Sciences - Question 4 - 2023 - Paper 1
Question 4
The president of South Africa has recently mentioned the proposed development of smart cities (powered by modern technology). These cities would be built close to la... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The president of South Africa has recently mentioned the proposed development of smart cities (powered by modern technology) - NSC Marine Sciences - Question 4 - 2023 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain why it has been proposed that a river mouth needs to be dammed for effective tidal power electricity generation.
Answer
Damming a river mouth is essential for effective tidal power generation because it creates a controlled environment that maximizes the difference in water levels between high and low tides. This is necessary to ensure there is sufficient potential energy to convert into electrical energy. The tidal flow must have an average tidal difference greater than 5 meters to be efficient. By constructing a dam, we can trap water at high tide and release it at low tide, effectively harnessing the kinetic energy of flowing water.
Step 2
Continue by discussing TWO separate alternative forms of electricity generation with the ocean as a source.
Answer
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Harvesting Wind Energy: Coastal regions often experience strong and consistent winds, making them ideal for wind turbine installations. The kinetic energy from the wind can be converted into electricity using turbines. The design of these turbines must ensure that they are resilient to harsh marine conditions, incorporating lightweight materials for efficiency and durability.
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Harvesting Wave Energy: Ocean waves represent a significant source of energy that can be converted into electricity. Wave energy converters can be designed to harness the up-and-down movement of waves, as well as their forward motion. These devices can be installed offshore and typically include mechanisms to generate electricity either via hydraulic systems or rotational motion.
Step 3
Discuss how South Africa can act immediately to manage energy supply.
Answer
South Africa can take immediate actions to manage its energy supply by investing in renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to diversify its energy mix. Implementing energy efficiency programs can help reduce overall demand. Furthermore, enhancing the national electricity grid to accommodate these renewable sources will be crucial. Education campaigns aimed at businesses and the general public can promote the importance of transitioning to renewable energy. Establishing policies that incentivize private investment in renewable projects can also accelerate the development of green energy solutions.
Step 4
Critically evaluate the government's focus on international private investment in a public-private project.
Answer
The government's focus on international private investment can provide needed capital and expertise to develop renewable energy projects. However, this reliance on outside investment poses potential risks, such as prioritizing profit over public interest and reducing government control over critical energy infrastructure. It is essential to ensure that the investment leads to sustainable development and equitable benefits for local communities. A balanced approach involving domestic stakeholders alongside international partners may mitigate these risks and foster long-term energy security.
Step 5
In your conclusion, discuss why smart cities need renewable energy.
Answer
Smart cities require renewable energy to ensure sustainability, reduce carbon footprints, and enhance energy security. As urban populations grow, the demand for energy will increase, necessitating clean and reliable energy sources to power infrastructure, transportation, and technology. Utilizing renewable energy not only addresses environmental concerns but also promotes economic growth through job creation in emerging sectors. By investing in renewables, smart cities can lead the way in innovation and sustainability, improving the quality of life for their inhabitants.