Final answer:
Wind power is a suitable option for Indiana's transition to renewable energy due to its ideal flat geography for wind farms, although solar energy could also complement it despite the intermittency of both sources.
Step-by-step explanation:
Best Renewable Energy Resource for Indiana
Considering the options for Indiana to convert to a single renewable energy source, wind power emerges as a strong candidate. Indiana has vast flatlands that are ideal for wind farms, making the state a prime location for harnessing wind energy. Wind turbines can convert the kinetic energy of wind into electricity, and the resource is abundant especially in the northern parts of the state. However, it's important to note that while wind power is growing fast and is one of the renewable resources demonstrating a rapid increase in usage, it is still somewhat intermittent.
In contrast, solar power is the most potent of the renewable resources, with the capability to convert sunlight directly into electricity using solar panels. Solar power could be a viable option as well, especially given its substantial potential during sunny days. Nevertheless, the intermittency issue remains, as solar power generation is heavily dependent on daylight hours and clear skies.
Hydroelectric power, while a clean and renewable source, is limited by Indiana's relatively flat geography and the absence of large rivers with significant elevation changes, thereby making it somewhat less suitable. Geothermal power is a more constant source of energy but may not be as feasible due to the lack of significant geothermal activity in Indiana compared to other regions.
In summary, both wind and solar power would be suitable for Indiana given their low pollution and renewability. However, considering the geography and current technological growth, wind power stands out as the most promising option for Indiana to pursue, supplemented by solar power to create a more robust and reliable energy mix.