Technology & Resource Shortages (Edexcel GCSE Geography A)
Revision Note
Author
Bridgette BarrettExpertise
Geography Lead
Technology & Energy Shortages
How can technology resolve energy shortages?
Advances in technology have increased the availability of energy sources
In mining
Drilling in deep-sea locations and other difficult environments is easier due to improvements in machinery
What is fracking?
One of the main advances in technology relates to fracking
Hydraulic fracturing or 'fracking', is the process of extracting shale gas
A mixture of sand, chemicals and water is pumped into shale rocks at high-pressure
This shatters the rock and releases shale gas trapped in the rocks
The process of fracking
Onshore shale gas fracking began in the UK in 2008
Fracking was seen by the government as a way of increasing energy supplies
In 2019, fracking in the UK was ended due to environmental concerns
What are the advantages and disadvantages of fracking?
Advantages and Disadvantages of Fracking
Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
Fewer emissions than burning coal or oil Reduces reliance on gas imports - increases energy security Increases employment Gas is easy to transport Reduces people's energy bills | Fluid used within fracking may contaminate water supplies Uses large quantities of water Emissions of gases such as methane Linked to an increase in earthquakes Impacts on human health and ecosystems due to the release of potentially harmful chemicals |
Worked Example
There are many different ways of developing energy resources
Identify the correct definition of the term fracking
(1)
| A Injection of liquid under pressure to release trapped gas in rocks |
| B Planting of trees and crops that will be used for fuel |
| C Cutting down trees and using them for fuelwood |
| D Polluting rivers with waste from coal and oil extraction |
Answer:
A - Injection of liquid under pressure to release trapped gas in rocks
The alternative answers are incorrect because:
B - is the growing of biofuel
C - is fuelwood
D - is water pollution
Exam Tip
For the exam, you need to ensure that you know the advantages and disadvantages of fracking. However, in longer questions, you may also need to consider whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. You should be able to critically evaluate fracking. It can reduce energy shortages, but is it a desirable way to achieve that? What could countries do to reduce energy shortages instead?
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