Question

______________ provide a large supply of electricity, Environmental impacts are enormous.

A. Nuclear power plants
B. Wind turbines
C. Hydroelectric dams
D. Fossil fuel power plants

Answer 1

Hydroelectric dams provide a large supply of electricity by harnessing the power of flowing water, but they have significant environmental impacts. Fish migration can be obstructed and fish can be injured by the turbines. However, measures can be taken to mitigate these environmental effects.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer is C. Hydroelectric dams.

Hydroelectric power plants, also known as hydropower plants, generate electricity by harnessing the power of flowing water. The water is stored behind a dam and when released, it flows through turbines, which rotate and generate electricity. The kinetic energy of the flowing water is converted into mechanical energy and then into electrical energy.

Although hydroelectric dams provide a large supply of electricity, it is important to consider their environmental impacts. While hydroelectric power does not directly produce emissions of air pollutants, the construction of dams and reservoirs can have serious environmental consequences. Dams can obstruct the migration of fish, such as salmon, to their upstream spawning areas. Additionally, hydro turbines can kill and injure some fish as they pass through the turbines. However, measures such as fish ladders can be implemented to help mitigate these effects.

Answer 2

C. Hydroelectric dams provide a large supply of electricity, and although they are a source of renewable energy, they can cause significant environmental impacts such as habitat disruption and fish migration obstacles.

Step-by-step explanation:

The answer to the statement '______________ provide a large supply of electricity, Environmental impacts are enormous' is C. Hydroelectric dams. Hydroelectric power, also known as hydropower, is a significant source of renewable energy, and while it does not produce direct emissions of air pollutants, the construction and operation of dams can have major environmental impacts. These impacts include the obstruction of fish migration and disruption of entire ecosystems.

Hydroelectric dams harness the potential energy of stored water. When the water is released, it converts to kinetic energy as it moves through turbines, generating electricity. This process, while considered clean compared to burning fossil fuels, involves creating large reservoirs that significantly alter the landscape and can displace human and wildlife populations.

Nuclear power plants, mentioned in the question, also provide a significant electricity supply and have lower direct greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel power plants. However, they carry concerns regarding radioactive waste management and potential catastrophic failures. Wind turbines and solar panels also supply electricity, but currently contribute less to the total energy budget, although they are rapidly growing in usage due to their significantly lower environmental impact.