compare and contrast fossil fuels and the sun as direct sources of energy
Answers
Explanation:
Solar energy vs fossil fuels
In terms of environmental impact, solar power is a much more optimal resource than fossil fuels. In terms of reliable application, coal and natural gas have the edge. The ultimate way to compare solar energy to fossil fuels is by cost, where solar has quickly caught up with its non-renewable counterparts.
Is solar power cheaper than coal and other fossil fuels?
Comparing the cost of various energy sources is far from simple. Government subsidies play a major role in shaping the growth potential for a new power source, which means that making an “apples to apples” comparison of the costs of solar energy vs. fossil fuels side-by-side is a complicated task.
The advantages and disadvantages of solar electricity vs. fossil fuel electricity
The pro/con list of solar energy vs. fossil fuels is likely no surprise to you. Fossil fuels offer the benefit of being a reliable resource that offers near-constant availability. Whether you want to go for a drive at 3 a.m. or 3 p.m., there is nothing you have to consider as a consumer other than if your gas tank is full. However, many people are already aware of the detriments of gas, oil and coal, including significant pollution and the reality that it is a scarce resource that will eventually run out.The full list of fossil fuel “cons” is fairly well understood, save for one: the cost and detriment of creating its production plants. Simply put, the operating costs associated with producing fossil fuels dramatically outweigh the operating costs of producing solar energy.
Solar is easily installed on a rooftop surface or ground mount and harnesses an already-available resource (sunlight). By comparison, fossil fuel use requires the degradation of the earth as a means to a fuel’s production. Many people are unaware that fossil fuels do not just create greenhouse gas emissions – the process of drilling also degrades and erodes the ground and pollutes the water supply.
Answer:
Explanation:
Sun is the direct source of energy, while fossil fuels are formed because of the solar energy stored in them. When green plants prepare food, they convert the solar energy into chemical energy which is stored in the form of biomass.