Non-renewable energy resources
4 marks · NormalOil and gas are widely used fossil fuels for electricity generation.
Describe one reason why natural gas is often chosen over coal for power stations.
State one way in which burning fossil fuels is trying to be made less harmful to the environment.
Suggest one reason why some countries continue to use coal despite its disadvantages.
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(a) Natural gas produces less carbon dioxide than coal for the same energy output.
(b) Removing sulphur before burning or capturing carbon dioxide produced.
(c) Coal may be more abundant or cheaper in some countries, or they may have existing infrastructure for coal power. It also provides jobs or energy security.
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · Any valid reason (e.g. less CO2, cleaner, less pollution).
B2 (b) · 1 mark · Any correct strategy to reduce environmental harm (e.g. remove sulphur, capture CO2, use filters).
B3 (c) · 2 marks · Any two reasons or detailed elaboration for countries still using coal (e.g. local abundance, cost, infrastructure, employment, energy security).
Worked solution
a) Natural gas produces less carbon dioxide than coal for the same energy output.
b) Companies may remove sulphur before burning, or try to capture carbon dioxide produced, to reduce environmental harm.
c) Some countries continue to use coal because it is readily available, cheaper, provides local jobs, or due to established power stations. They may also wish to reduce reliance on imports.