Lesson 5.03 Biomass Energy, Geothermal Energy, and Landfill Gas

• Introduction
• Learn
• Try It
• Task

Introduction

In recent years, biomass energy and geothermal energy have become more prevalent widespread and common as sources of energy.

The next time you go to the gas station to fill up pay attention to the gas pump that dispenses your gasoline. Chances are you will notice a sticker that says may contain up to 10% ethanol. In recent years, you have probably noticed vehicles with E85 or FlexFuel on them. Both of these are examples biomass fuels being used as sources of supplemental energy for transportation.

In this lesson, you will learn about the different types of biomass energy and geothermal energy and how they are used as alternative sources of energy.

Typical E85 badge used American models to identify flexible-fuel vehicles. Image courtesy of Mario Roberto Duran Ortiz.

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Lesson Objectives

Following successful completion of this lesson, students will be able to... Identify the uses of biomass energy, geothermal energy, and landfill gas as sources of renewable energy Determine the advantages and disadvantages of biomass energy, geothermal energy, and landfill gas uses compared to fossil fuels. Enduring Understanding: Though renewable biomass energy is cleaner than fossil fuels, it can be less efficient and more expensive. Geothermal energy emits no greenhouse gases, yet is not readily available in most places. The above objectives correspond with the Alabama Course of Study: Environmental Science 1 This lesson incorporates the following Literacy Standards: R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R10, W1, W2, W3, W4, W8, W9, and W10