Biomass energy has been around since the earliest cavemen used wood to create heat for cooking and warmth (National Geographic). Biomass energy is produced by materials that originated from plants and organic elements of municipal and industrial waste. Biomass is used for to produce heating, generating electricity, and it can be converted into a liquid fuel source. The United States uses burning wood or biomass stock which creates steam which then is used to drive turbines and produce electricity. Biomass can be fermented high in carbohydrates to produce ethanol. Processing vegetable oil or animal fat with alcohol or other chemicals produces biodiesel. Biomass energy is good for the environment because it reduces pollutants and emissions through using biofuel. Biomass energy can also be harmful to the environment by decreasing biodiversity and it can have a negative impact on habitats of wildlife by producing crops that are used to create biomass. Biomass energy is the second most important source of renewable energy in the United States. Biomass is a significant part of the United States waste management infrastructure. (Ecoregions of the United States, 2005)
Day #1
Day one should explain how biomass and geothermal energy is produced, as well as explain where biomass energy sources can be found and utilized in the United States. Day one should also explain the positives and negatives of biomass energy. Students could do the activity GOING FOR A SPIN: Making a Model Steam Turbine to show how Biomass energy is produced by steam that spins a generator. Students can look at the potential for Kilowatts per county of the United States to see where biomass energy sources can be found. Students could also do the Alternative Energy Worksheet to help them record their finding about biomass energy. At the end of the first day students should be able to explain whether or not biomass energy is best for Arizona.
Day #1
Day one should explain how biomass and geothermal energy is produced, as well as explain where biomass energy sources can be found and utilized in the United States. Day one should also explain the positives and negatives of biomass energy. Students could do the activity GOING FOR A SPIN: Making a Model Steam Turbine to show how Biomass energy is produced by steam that spins a generator. Students can look at the potential for Kilowatts per county of the United States to see where biomass energy sources can be found. Students could also do the Alternative Energy Worksheet to help them record their finding about biomass energy. At the end of the first day students should be able to explain whether or not biomass energy is best for Arizona.