Final answer:
The criteria in a preference matrix can be based on various factors, not just cost, and can be scored on any scale. Weightings can be adjusted to reflect the importance of different attributes, which can lead to significant changes in the ranking of energy sources when considering factors like abundance and efficiency.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a preference matrix, the criteria can be scored on any scale, addressing the student's query about the limitations of scoring within a preference matrix. The statement that criteria must be based on costs is not accurate, as criteria within a preference matrix can be based on various factors, including but not limited to cost, efficiency, and environmental impact.
When re-scoring the matrix using one's own weights, each attribute can be given different significance based on how important they are considered in the context of energy resources. For instance, one might choose to increase the weight for 'abundance' and 'efficiency' while lowering the weight for characteristics like individual 'acceptance.' Each energy source's score is then adjusted according to these weights with blue cells adding points, red cells deducting points, and yellow cells making no changes, which might then lead to a significant shake-up in the rankings of these energy resources.
The comparison matrix is particularly useful for visualizing the relative advantages and disadvantages of each source, as different weights will reflect different priorities and could potentially challenge the current ranking, leading to major surprises such as the positioning of fossil fuels in comparison to other energy sources.