Electrical energy is one subject studied in GCSE Science. This is the fifth of six quizzes on that, topic and it looks at some of the pros and cons of alternative electricity from renewable sources.
Since the start of the Industrial Revolution, an ever increasing proportion of our energy has come from non-renewable sources such as oil, coal and natural gas. These fossil fuels were made millions of years ago from the remains of dead plants and sea creatures. When they are used up, it will take millions of years before any more are formed. They lock away carbon which is then released into the atmosphere when they are burnt. This means that the amount of carbon dioxide in the air has increased since we started using more and more fossil fuels. Our needs for energy continue to rise and these resources are running out. Scientists and engineers are exploring the potential of renewable sources of energy for the future.