Physics P2 - Fuels for power

The heat energy for power stations comes from a variety of sources. Some of these are non-renewable, such as oil, coal, natural gas and nuclear fuels. Others are renewable, such as wood, straw and manure.

The cost of electricity depends on the power rating of the appliance used, how long it is used for, and the price of a unit of electricity.

Fossil fuels

Coal and oil release sulfur dioxide gas when they burn, which causes breathing problems for living creatures and contributes to acid rain.

Nuclear Power

If there is an accident, large amounts of radioactive material could be released into the environment. In addition, nuclear waste remains radioactive and is hazardous to health for thousands of years. It must be stored safely.

Unlike fossil fuels, nuclear fuels do not produce carbon dioxide or sulfur dioxide when they are used.

Renewable biomass

Wood, straw and manure are cheap and a readily available source of energy. If trees and crops crops are replaced, biomass can be a long-term, sustainable energy source. However, a lot…