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GCSE Questions: Energy Sources

Q16. (a) Iceland is a country that generates nearly all of its electricity from renewable sources.

In 2014 Iceland had hydroelectric power stations with a total installed capacity of 1.986 MW, generating 72% of the country's electricity production.

Describe how electricity is generated in a hydroelectric power station. Include the useful energy transfers taking place.

[4 marks]

(b) In 2014 the UK produced most of its electricity from fossil fuels.

Many people in the UK left their televisions in 'stand by' mode when not in use, instead of switching them off. Adverts were used to try to encourage them to 'save money' by switching them off.

It is also better for the environment if people learn to switch off their televisions, instead of leaving them in 'stand by' mode. Explain why.

[3 marks]

(c) A scientist wrote in a newspaper: 'Appliances that do not automatically switch off when they are not being used should be banned.'

Suggest why scientists alone cannot make the decision to ban these appliances.

[1 mark]

(Total 8 marks)