10–15% of the AP exam. Key topics: Renewable vs. nonrenewable energy sources, Global energy consumption patterns and trends, Fossil fuels: coal formation, extraction methods, and environmental impacts, Fossil fuels: oil (petroleum) extraction, refining, and spill impacts, Fossil fuels: natural gas extraction (conventional and fracking) and impacts, Nuclear power: fission process, uranium fuel cycle, waste storage, and safety, Biomass energy: types and combustion impacts, Solar energy: photovoltaic and concentrated solar power, Hydroelectric power: conventional dams and run-of-river systems, Geothermal energy: sources and applications, Wind energy: turbine operation and siting considerations, Hydrogen fuel cells: operation and environmental profile, Energy return on investment (EROI), Energy conservation and efficiency strategies, Fuel efficiency calculations.
Study guide content for this unit is being prepared. Check back soon for complete lesson notes, formula sheets, and worked examples.
