Energy and Climate

  1. Find a textbook definition of energy. Share a paraphrased definition with citation, along with an example of application of energy. Research and describe what it means that energy and matter cannot be created or destroyed and apply it to this question. Where does energy come from? How do we get energy from combusting something? Once liberated, how is energy stored, transmitted and used?
  2. Identify traditional sources of energy. Describe the history of energy use on our planet. Compare this to global climate data.
  3. Sources of energy: research and present one traditional source of energy and two or more ‘alternative’ sources. Compare and contrast them. Which is more efficient, in terms of cost, energy production and greenhouse gas emission? How easy is the implementation of a new source over the old source?
  4. What is the climate of your region? What seasonal variations in energy type and amount can you describe? How does the climate and seasonal energy use relate to climate change? Use the facts, draw reasonable conclusions. Remember to be open minded.
  5. How are climate and energy use connected? How are they both part of the natural system in your region? Include examples of the climate change impact your region makes (or doesn’t).
  6. Create an hypothesis of the type of energy that would be best suited to your environment. Assume no cost constraints. Find two articles which would support this hypothesis. Find one article that suggests that some other energy source might also be appropriate. Report your findings as a conclusion to the presentation. Include all references used in APA format.