Which statement is false? A) Solar energy can be converted from solar radiation energy, to heat energy, to electrical energy, and kinetic energy. B) Wind energy originally came from the sun because solar radiation changes atmospheric temperature, which changes air pressure, causing wind used for wind energy. C) Geothermal energy is NOT considered a fossil fuel. D) Energy from the combustion of gas is cleaner because it does not produce greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and water.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The false statement is D) Energy from the combustion of gas is cleaner because it does not produce greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and water.
Explanation:
Energy from the combustion of fossil fuels, including natural gas, is not “clean” in the sense that it does not produce greenhouse gases. Here’s why:
- Combustion of Natural Gas: When natural gas is burned, it reacts with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide (CO2) and water vapor (H2O), along with energy. The chemical reaction looks like this: CH4+2O2→CO2+2H2O+EnergyCH_4 + 2O_2 \rightarrow CO_2 + 2H_2O + \text{Energy}CH4+2O2→CO2+2H2O+Energy Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming and climate change. Therefore, even though natural gas emits fewer CO2 emissions than other fossil fuels like coal or oil, it still produces CO2 and thus contributes to environmental pollution.
- Water Vapor: While water vapor is a natural byproduct of combustion, it still plays a role in the greenhouse effect. In large quantities, water vapor can amplify the warming effect because it contributes to the formation of clouds that trap heat.
- Comparison with Other Fuels: While natural gas is often considered a “cleaner” fossil fuel due to its lower CO2 emissions compared to coal, it is still part of the fossil fuel category and a significant contributor to global warming.
In contrast, renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal energy do not produce greenhouse gases during operation, making them “clean” energy sources. These alternatives are much more environmentally friendly compared to fossil fuels.
To summarize, natural gas combustion does release greenhouse gases, so statement D is false.
