Fossil Fuels vs Alternative Energy What is Fossil

Fossil Fuels vs. Alternative Energy

What is Fossil Fuel? • Microorganisms are buried and decay • Formed millions to hundreds of millions of years ago • Supply is limited • Burning produces carbon dioxide (CO 2) • Contains other impurities that cause pollution

Examples of Fossil Fuels: Extreme emissions and pollution § Petroleum (oil) § Used to fuel vehicles § Coal § Powers electricity plants

More examples: Fossil Fuels considered to be less harmful than oil…. But still limited in supply. ► Natural Gas ► Propane § Domestically abundant (in the USA) Fossil Fuel Dependence

Alternative Sources of Energy n Options to replace fossil fuels n Solutions to solve environmental problems n Reduce carbon emissions n Lowers other greenhouse gases

Biomass energy sources • Ethanol – Produced domestically – From corn or other crops – Produces lower greenhouse emissions • Biodiesel – From vegetable or animal fats – Produces less pollution Alternative Fuels

Electricity as an Alternative Electric Motor Vehicles n n n 75% of energy is converted to power No tailpipe emissions Domestic (self reliant) Stronger acceleration Less maintenance Electric Cars Internal Combustion Engine n n n 15 -20% of energy is converted to power Great emissions Political and Economic issues