Final answer:
The most expensive electric system for the Vanelli family to operate would be resistance heating, due to its 1:1 conversion rate of electrical energy to heat, which is less efficient and more costly than renewable energy solutions like solar power, geothermal heating, or wind turbines.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most expensive electric system to operate for the Vanelli family would be d) Resistance heating. Resistance heating is less efficient because it converts electrical energy directly into heat at a 1:1 ratio. This means that for every unit of electrical energy used, only one unit of heat is produced, leading to higher operational costs compared to other systems. In contrast, solar power, geothermal heating, and wind turbines can all be more cost-effective over time. For instance, solar power harnesses the sun's energy, geothermal systems use the Earth's natural heat, and wind turbines convert wind energy into electricity. These systems may have higher upfront costs but can provide significant savings in the long run due to their renewable nature and higher efficiency.
Geothermal systems, while reliable, are geographically limited and may not be feasible everywhere. Meanwhile, solar power systems often require grid-tie configurations or battery storage to manage energy outside of peak sunlight hours. Wind turbines can also provide energy savings but are subjected to the variability of wind availability.
In terms of the complexity of installation and use, passive solar homes and systems that use a combination of renewable energy sources, like solar panels and wind power, could satisfy most domestic energy needs in a self-sufficient manner with a proper setup. Nonetheless, the up-front investment and potential limitations based on location and climate should be considered.