Enviroment
Enviroment
1. Environmental Classification
Environmental classification refers to the categorization of environments based on
specific criteria such as physical characteristics, ecosystems, human impact, or
climate. It helps in understanding and managing natural resources effectively. The
main types include:
1. Natural Environment – Includes forests, rivers, mountains, and wildlife.
2. Built Environment – Man-made surroundings like cities, buildings, and
infrastructure.
3. Biotic Environment – Living components such as plants, animals, and
microorganisms.
4. Abiotic Environment – Non-living components like air, water, soil, and
temperature.
2. Descriptor of Environment
A descriptor of the environment refers to specific characteristics or features that are
used to define, classify, and evaluate different types of environments. These
descriptors help scientists, planners, and decision-makers understand the nature and
quality of an environment. They include:
1. Physical Features – These describe the natural elements of the environment
such as landforms (mountains, plains, valleys), climate (temperature, rainfall),
water bodies (rivers, lakes, oceans), and soil types.
2. Biological Features – These involve the living components like types of
vegetation, presence of flora and fauna, biodiversity, and ecological
communities.
3. Human Influence – These descriptors focus on how humans interact with the
environment, including population density, pollution levels, urban development,
and land use patterns.
4. Temporal Aspects – These refer to the time-based changes in the
environment, including seasonal variations, natural cycles (e.g., migration or
hibernation), and long-term changes like climate change or deforestation.
Together, these descriptors provide a comprehensive understanding of an
environment’s current state and potential for future change.
Ecology is the branch of biology that studies the interactions between living
organisms and their physical environment. It examines how organisms depend on
each other and on their surroundings for survival, growth, and reproduction. Key
components of ecology include ecosystems, food chains, energy flow, and
biodiversity.
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to species extinction, reduced biodiversity, altered food chains, and loss of ecosystem
services like clean air and water.
Sources of Groundwater include rainwater that infiltrates the soil and gets stored in
aquifers, as well as seepage from rivers, lakes, and irrigation fields. It accumulates in
underground layers of rock and soil called water tables or aquifers.
Regular monitoring is important to ensure groundwater is safe for drinking and other
uses.
In water treatment, several quality parameters are assessed to ensure the water is
clean, safe, and suitable for human use. These parameters are grouped into four main
categories:
These parameters are carefully monitored and controlled during water treatment to
ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
Sources of surface water include natural water bodies such as rivers, lakes, ponds,
streams, and reservoirs. These sources receive water from rainfall, melting snow, and
surface runoff. Surface water is widely used for drinking, irrigation, industry, and
recreation.
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Physical parameters include turbidity, color, temperature, and odor.
Chemical parameters assess pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), total dissolved solids
(TDS), nitrates, phosphates, and heavy metals (like lead or mercury).
Biological parameters include the presence of bacteria (like E. coli), viruses,
and algae.
The process of supplying potable (safe drinking) water involves several treatment
steps to remove physical, chemical, and biological impurities. The main processes are:
1. Screening – Removes large debris like leaves, sticks, and plastics from raw
water.
2. Coagulation and Flocculation – Chemicals (like alum) are added to cause
small particles to clump into larger ones (flocs) for easier removal.
3. Sedimentation – The flocs settle at the bottom of a tank, separating them from
the clear water above.
4. Filtration – Water passes through layers of sand, gravel, or activated carbon to
remove remaining particles and microorganisms.
5. Disinfection – Chlorine, ozone, or UV light is used to kill any remaining harmful
pathogens.
6. Storage and Distribution – Treated water is stored in clean tanks and
supplied through pipelines to homes and other users.
These steps ensure the water is clean, safe, and meets health standards for human
consumption.
Surface water pollution occurs when harmful substances like industrial waste,
sewage, plastics, and agricultural runoff (pesticides, fertilizers) enter rivers, lakes, and
ponds. This leads to water quality degradation, eutrophication, and harm to aquatic
life.
Groundwater pollution happens when pollutants seep through the soil into
underground aquifers. Common sources include leaking septic tanks, landfills,
industrial waste disposal, and excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides. It is often
harder to detect and clean than surface water pollution.
Both types of pollution pose serious risks to human health, agriculture, and
ecosystems, making prevention and monitoring essential.
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9. Water Pollutants
Water pollutants are substances that degrade the quality of water, making it
harmful to humans, animals, and the environment. They can be categorized as:
These pollutants enter water bodies through industrial discharge, agricultural runoff,
sewage, and improper waste disposal, and require treatment to ensure water safety.
The mode of water pollution refers to how pollutants enter water bodies and cause
contamination. The main modes include:
12. What is pH
Total Suspended Solids (TSS) refer to the tiny particles or solids suspended in
water, such as silt, clay, algae, and organic matter. These particles can cause water to
appear cloudy or turbid. High levels of TSS can reduce water quality by affecting light
penetration, oxygen levels, and aquatic life. TSS is measured by filtering water
through a membrane and weighing the solids left behind. It is an important parameter
for water treatment and monitoring environmental health.
Total Solids (TS) refer to the combined amount of all solid materials present in
water, including both dissolved and suspended solids. Total solids are divided into two
categories:
1. Total Suspended Solids (TSS) – Solids that are suspended in water and can
be removed by filtration.
2. Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) – Solids that are dissolved in water, including
minerals, salts, and organic matter.
BOD Calculation:
BOD is calculated by measuring the difference in dissolved oxygen (DO) before and
after 5 days of incubation:
BOD=DO1−DO2
Where:
Higher BOD means higher organic pollution, which can deplete oxygen in water.
COD Calculation:
Where:
V1V_1 and V2V_2 are volumes of titrant for the blank and sample.
NN is the normality of the titrant.
The chemistry aspect of water pollution involves the study of chemical substances
that contaminate water and their interactions. Key chemical pollutants include heavy
metals (like lead, mercury, arsenic), nitrates, phosphates, detergents, pesticides, and
industrial chemicals. These substances can alter the pH, increase chemical oxygen
demand (COD) and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), reduce dissolved
oxygen (DO), and introduce toxicity to aquatic life and humans.
Chemical reactions in polluted water may also produce harmful by-products like
ammonia, hydrogen sulfide, or acidic compounds, which further degrade water
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quality. Understanding these chemical changes is essential for effective water
treatment and pollution control
Combining these efforts helps maintain clean and safe water sources for all.
UNIT 3
20. What is solid waste
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Solid waste refers to unwanted or discarded solid materials produced from human activities, including
residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural sources. It includes items like household garbage,
plastics, paper, metals, food waste, construction debris, and hazardous waste.
Solid waste is classified based on its source and composition. The main types include:
1. Municipal Solid Waste – Waste from households and public places (e.g., food waste, paper,
plastics).
2. Industrial Waste – Generated by factories and industries (e.g., chemicals, scrap metals, slag).
3. Biomedical Waste – Produced by hospitals and clinics (e.g., used syringes, bandages, human
tissues).
4. Agricultural Waste – Includes crop residues, manure, and pesticide containers.
5. Hazardous Waste – Toxic, flammable, or corrosive materials (e.g., batteries, paint, solvents).
6. E-waste – Discarded electronic devices like computers, phones, and TVs.
E-waste (Electronic waste) refers to discarded electrical or electronic devices such as computers, mobile
phones, TVs, refrigerators, and batteries. It is one of the fastest-growing types of waste due to rapid
technological advancements and short product life cycles.
E-waste contains valuable materials like gold, silver, and copper, but also hazardous substances such as lead,
mercury, and cadmium. Improper disposal can cause serious environmental pollution and health issues.
Proper collection, recycling, and safe disposal of e-waste are essential to recover useful materials and
prevent toxic contamination. Public awareness and strict regulations are key to managing e-waste
effectively.
1. Municipal Waste:
Generated from households, schools, offices, and public places. It includes food scraps, paper,
plastics, glass, and garden waste. Poor management can lead to pollution and health hazards.
2. Industrial Waste:
Produced by factories and manufacturing units. It includes chemicals, metals, sludge, and process
waste. Some of it is hazardous and requires special handling and treatment.
3. Hospital (Biomedical) Waste:
Comes from hospitals, clinics, and laboratories. It includes used syringes, bandages, human tissues,
and pharmaceuticals. This waste is infectious and must be properly segregated, disinfected, and
incinerated.
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1. Hazardous Waste:
Hazardous waste includes substances that are toxic, flammable, corrosive, or reactive. Examples
include chemicals, batteries, paints, and industrial solvents. It poses serious risks to human health
and the environment if not handled properly. Special storage, transport, and disposal methods are
required.
2. Plastic Waste:
Plastic waste comes from packaging, bottles, bags, and other everyday items. It is non-biodegradable
and persists in the environment for hundreds of years, polluting land and water. It also harms wildlife
and enters the food chain as microplastics.
Solid waste management refers to the collection, transportation, processing, recycling, and disposal of solid
waste in a safe and efficient manner. The goal is to reduce environmental pollution, protect public health,
and conserve resources.
The disposal of solid waste involves safely getting rid of waste materials to prevent harm to health and the
environment. Common disposal methods include:
1. Landfilling – Waste is buried in specially designed landfills that prevent leakage into soil and
groundwater.
2. Incineration – Burning of waste at high temperatures, which reduces volume and can generate
energy.
3. Composting – Biodegradable waste is broken down naturally to produce compost for soil
improvement.
4. Sanitary Disposal – Use of secure containers or pits for disposing of medical or hazardous waste
under safety guidelines.
Soil pollution occurs when harmful chemicals, waste, or other pollutants contaminate the soil, affecting its
health and fertility. The main causes include the improper disposal of industrial waste, agricultural
chemicals (pesticides, fertilizers), sewage, and plastic waste. These pollutants can degrade soil quality,
disrupt ecosystems, and contaminate food crops, leading to health risks for humans and animals.
Preventing soil pollution requires proper waste disposal, reducing the use of harmful chemicals, and
promoting organic farming practices.
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28 . What do you know about poor fertility
Poor fertility refers to soil that is unable to support healthy plant growth due to deficiencies in essential
nutrients or unfavorable conditions. Factors contributing to poor fertility include:
1. Nutrient Depletion – Continuous cropping without replenishing soil nutrients can lead to nutrient
deficiencies, affecting plant growth.
2. Soil Erosion – Loss of topsoil due to wind or water reduces soil's ability to retain nutrients and
water.
3. Acidity or Alkalinity – Soil with extreme pH levels (either too acidic or too alkaline) can inhibit
nutrient availability for plants.
4. Pollution and Contamination – Contaminants like heavy metals, chemicals, or pesticides can
degrade soil quality and hinder plant growth.
To improve fertility, practices like crop rotation, organic farming, and the use of fertilizers or soil
conditioners are employed.
29 . What is septicity
Septicity (4 Marks):
Septicity refers to the condition in which waste, typically in sewerage or wastewater systems, undergoes
anaerobic decomposition. This process occurs in the absence of oxygen and leads to the production of foul-
smelling gases, such as hydrogen sulfide, which contribute to unpleasant odors. Septicity is common in
poorly maintained or stagnant sewage systems, where organic matter decomposes without sufficient
aeration.
The presence of septic conditions can lead to the spread of pathogens and create health hazards. Proper
aeration, regular maintenance, and treatment can prevent septic conditions in wastewater systems.
Infecting agents in soil are microorganisms that can cause diseases in plants, animals, or humans. These
agents include:
1. Bacteria – Pathogenic bacteria like Escherichia coli (E. coli), Salmonella, and Clostridium species
are common in contaminated soil. High concentrations are typically found in areas with poor waste
management or animal waste contamination.
2. Fungi – Soil-borne fungi like Fusarium, Rhizoctonia, and Phytophthora can cause plant diseases like
wilt or root rot. Fungal concentration can vary depending on soil moisture and organic matter.
3. Viruses – Some plant viruses, such as those in the Tospovirus family, can be carried by soil,
although their concentrations are generally lower and depend on infected plant material and soil
types.
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4. Parasites – Protozoa and nematodes like Toxoplasma and Ascaris can infect both plants and
animals. The concentration of parasitic eggs or larvae in soil depends on sanitation practices and
contamination levels.
31,What is leaching
Leaching (4 Marks):
Leaching is the process by which water dissolves and carries away soluble substances, such as nutrients,
chemicals, or pollutants, from the soil or other solid material. This typically occurs when rainwater or
irrigation water percolates through the soil, carrying away nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, and
phosphorus, as well as harmful substances like pesticides or heavy metals.
Leaching can affect soil fertility by depleting essential nutrients and can contaminate groundwater with
harmful chemicals. To prevent excessive leaching, sustainable farming practices, such as proper irrigation
techniques and the use of organic fertilizers, are essential.
Leaching can significantly contribute to soil pollution by carrying harmful chemicals deep into the soil
layers and eventually into groundwater. When fertilizers, pesticides, or industrial waste are applied to land,
rain or irrigation water can dissolve these substances and leach them away from the surface.
1. Groundwater Contamination – Toxic substances leached from soil can pollute drinking water
sources.
2. Loss of Soil Fertility – Leaching removes essential nutrients, reducing the soil’s ability to support
plant growth.
3. Accumulation of Toxins – Some harmful chemicals may accumulate in lower soil layers, affecting
root zones and soil organisms.
4. Disruption of Soil Microbiology – The leached chemicals can harm beneficial soil microbes,
impacting soil health.
UNIT 5
33. What do you mean by energy scenario
An energy scenario refers to the current status, trends, and future outlook of energy production,
consumption, and resource availability within a region or globally. It includes the mix of energy sources
such as fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas), renewable sources (solar, wind, hydro), and nuclear energy.
The demand and supply of energy in different sectors (residential, industrial, transportation).
The environmental impact of energy use, including emissions and climate change.
The need for energy conservation, efficiency, and transition to sustainable sources.
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Studying the energy scenario is important for planning energy policies and ensuring long-term energy
security.
Solar radiation is the energy emitted by the sun in the form of electromagnetic waves. It includes visible
light, ultraviolet (UV), and infrared (IR) radiation. This energy reaches the Earth and is essential for life,
influencing weather, climate, and biological processes.
Solar radiation is measured in terms of irradiance (watts per square meter). It is the primary source of
natural energy and is used in solar panels to generate electricity (solar power) and heat (solar thermal).
The amount of solar radiation received varies by location, time of day, season, and atmospheric conditions
like cloud cover and pollution.
Solar radiation is the energy emitted by the sun, and it reaches the Earth in different forms. The main types
include:
1. Direct Solar Radiation – Sunlight that travels in a straight line from the sun to the Earth without
being scattered or diffused. It is strongest on clear days and is used in concentrated solar power
systems.
2. Diffuse Solar Radiation – Sunlight that has been scattered by molecules and particles in the
atmosphere. It reaches the Earth's surface from all directions and is common on cloudy days.
3. Reflected Solar Radiation – Sunlight that bounces off surfaces like the ground, water, or buildings
before reaching a surface or solar panel.
These types of radiation together contribute to the global solar radiation received at a location.
A solar cell, also known as a photovoltaic (PV) cell, is a device that converts sunlight directly into
electricity using the photovoltaic effect. It is made from semiconductor materials, usually silicon, which
absorb solar energy and release electrons, generating an electric current.
Solar cells are the basic building blocks of solar panels, and they are widely used in calculators, street
lights, homes, and large solar power plants.
They are clean, renewable, and help reduce dependence on fossil fuels, making them an important part of
sustainable energy solutions.
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A solar cell works on the photovoltaic effect, which is the process of converting sunlight directly into
electricity.
1. The solar cell is made of semiconductor materials like silicon, with a p-n junction (positive and
negative layers).
2. When sunlight (photons) hits the cell, it excites electrons in the semiconductor material.
3. These excited electrons move across the p-n junction, creating an electric current.
4. This current is collected by metal contacts and can be used to power electrical devices.
Solar cells are classified based on the materials and technology used. The main types include:
39. Basic working principle of solar photovoltaic cell and write it's
application
A solar photovoltaic (PV) cell converts sunlight directly into electricity using the photovoltaic effect.
When sunlight (photons) strikes the surface of the semiconductor material (usually silicon), it excites
electrons, creating electron-hole pairs. These free electrons move through an electric field at the p-n
junction, generating a direct current (DC), which can be used as electricity.
Working Principle:
Advantages:
Solar water pumps are widely used in agriculture and rural water supply systems.
Solar thermal energy harnesses the sun's heat to generate energy, unlike photovoltaic systems that convert
sunlight into electricity. The working principle involves:
1. Solar Water Heating: Used for domestic hot water supply, swimming pools, and industrial
processes.
2. Solar Space Heating: Provides space heating for homes and buildings.
3. Solar Electricity Generation (CSP - Concentrated Solar Power): Uses mirrors or lenses to
concentrate sunlight to produce steam that drives turbines for electricity generation.
4. Industrial Heating: Provides high-temperature heat for industrial processes like drying, food
processing, or chemical production.
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Solar Pond (4 Marks):
A solar pond is a special type of body of water that captures and stores solar energy. It works by using the
principle of salinity gradient (difference in salt concentration) to trap heat in the lower layers of the pond.
Working Principle:
1. Salinity Gradient: The pond is divided into layers with varying salt concentrations. The bottom
layers of the pond have a higher concentration of salt, making them denser.
2. Solar Absorption: The sunlight is absorbed by the water at the surface, warming the top layers. In
the middle and bottom layers, the higher salt concentration prevents the heat from escaping.
3. Heat Storage: As sunlight continues to warm the water, the lower, saltier layers trap the heat. The
temperature can reach up to 85°C to 90°C in the deep layers, even while the surface remains cooler.
4. Heat Extraction: This trapped heat can be extracted and used for various applications, such as
water heating, electricity generation, or industrial processes.
Applications:
Solar Thermal Energy Generation: Heat extracted from solar ponds can be used to drive turbines
to generate electricity.
Water Heating: Provides a sustainable source of heat for industrial or domestic water heating.
Desalination: Used for water desalination processes where the trapped heat can drive desalination
plants.
Solar steel refers to the steel materials used in the frames and supporting structures of solar panels and
solar power systems. Steel is widely used in solar installations due to its strength, durability, and cost-
effectiveness. The components include:
1. Solar Panel Frames: Solar panels are often housed in aluminum or steel frames to ensure
structural integrity and protection from environmental factors.
2. Mounting Structures: Steel is commonly used in the mounting systems for solar panels, including
ground-mounted racks and rooftop mounting systems. Steel provides stability and ensures that panels
are securely positioned to capture sunlight.
3. Solar Farms: In large-scale solar installations, steel structures are used to support rows of solar
panels, keeping them at the optimal angle for sunlight exposure.
A solar water heater works by using solar energy to heat water for domestic or industrial use. The system
consists of solar collectors, typically installed on rooftops, which absorb sunlight and convert it into heat.
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1. Absorption of Solar Energy: Solar collectors (usually flat-plate collectors or evacuated tube
collectors) absorb sunlight, converting it into heat.
2. Heat Transfer: The absorbed heat is transferred to a heat transfer fluid (usually water or antifreeze
solution) circulating through pipes in the collectors.
3. Heating the Water: The heated fluid flows into a storage tank, where it transfers its heat to the
water, raising the water's temperature.
4. Hot Water Storage: The hot water is then stored in the tank for use as needed.
A wind energy system converts the kinetic energy of wind into electrical energy using a wind turbine. The
basic working principle involves the following steps:
1. Wind Movement: As the wind blows, it moves the blades of the wind turbine.
2. Mechanical Energy Conversion: The rotating blades turn a shaft connected to a generator.
3. Electrical Energy Generation: The mechanical motion of the shaft drives the generator, converting
the mechanical energy into electrical energy.
4. Energy Transmission: The generated electricity is then transmitted through power lines for use in
homes, industries, or power grids.
Wind energy systems work best in areas with consistent, strong winds and are a renewable and
environmentally friendly source of power.
Wind turbines are primarily used to convert wind energy into electricity, but they also have various other
applications:
1. Electricity Generation: The most common use of wind turbines is in wind farms for large-scale
electricity production, feeding power into the grid for residential, industrial, and commercial use.
2. Off-Grid Power Supply: In remote or rural areas without access to the electricity grid, wind
turbines can provide standalone power for homes, farms, and small communities.
3. Pumping Water: Wind turbines can be used to pump water for agricultural irrigation or livestock
watering in off-grid locations.
4. Hybrid Energy Systems: Wind turbines can be integrated into hybrid systems with solar or other
renewable sources to provide consistent and reliable energy for various applications, like remote
monitoring stations, telecommunications, or backup power for critical infrastructure.
Wind turbines are classified into two main types based on the axis of rotation:
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o Often used in large-scale wind farms.
o Higher efficiency and energy output.
o Example: Traditional large wind turbines seen in wind farms.
2. Vertical-Axis Wind Turbines (VAWT):
o The rotor blades rotate around a vertical axis.
o Can capture wind from any direction, so they don't need to be oriented into the wind.
o More suitable for small-scale and urban applications.
o Example: Darrieus and Savonius wind turbines.
Gasifier (4 Marks):
A gasifier is a device that converts solid biomass or other carbon-rich materials (like coal, wood, or
agricultural waste) into syngas (synthesis gas) through a process called gasification. This process involves
partial combustion in a low-oxygen environment to produce a mixture of gases, primarily carbon monoxide
(CO), hydrogen (H2), and methane (CH4).
Working Principle:
1. Feedstock Input: Biomass or other materials are fed into the gasifier.
2. Gasification: The feedstock is heated at high temperatures in a low-oxygen environment, breaking it
down into gaseous products.
3. Syngas Production: The gas produced can be used directly for heating, electricity generation, or as a
feedstock for chemicals and fuels.
Applications:
Gasifiers are a part of renewable energy systems and are used to convert waste materials into valuable
energy.
Digester (4 Marks):
A digester is a device or tank used in anaerobic digestion, a biological process where microorganisms
break down organic material (such as food waste, agricultural residue, sewage, or other biomass) in the
absence of oxygen. This process produces biogas (primarily methane, CH₄) and digestate (a nutrient-rich
residue).
Working Principle:
Applications:
A bio-thermal energy system utilizes biomass (organic materials like wood, agricultural waste, or animal
dung) to generate heat, which can then be used for various applications such as space heating, water heating,
or electricity generation. The basic principle involves the following steps:
Applications:
A bio-thermal energy system generates heat energy by burning biomass such as wood, crop waste, or
animal dung. The system converts the chemical energy stored in organic matter into thermal energy
through combustion.
Working Principle:
1. Biomass Collection: Organic materials like agricultural residues or wood are gathered.
2. Combustion: Biomass is burned in a controlled environment.
3. Heat Generation: The chemical energy in biomass is released as heat.
4. Energy Use: This thermal energy can be used directly for cooking, heating, or to produce steam for
generating electricity.
Applications:
Small and micro hydro systems are designed to generate hydropower using water flow from rivers,
streams, or other water sources. These systems use the kinetic energy of flowing water to generate
electricity.
Working Principle:
1. Water Flow: Water from a stream or river is directed toward a turbine via a channel or pipe (called
a penstock).
2. Turbine Rotation: The flowing water strikes the turbine blades, causing them to spin. The turbine
is connected to a generator.
3. Energy Conversion: As the turbine spins, it turns the generator, converting the mechanical energy
into electrical energy.
4. Power Output: The generated electricity is then transmitted to a grid or stored for local use.
Components:
Diagram:
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Working Principle of Geothermal Energy System (4 Marks)
A geothermal energy system harnesses the Earth's internal heat to produce electricity or provide direct
heating. This energy comes from natural processes like radioactive decay and residual heat from Earth's
formation.
Working Principle:
1. Heat Extraction: Deep wells are drilled into underground geothermal reservoirs containing hot
water or steam.
2. Steam Collection: The heat from the Earth brings the water to high temperatures, often turning it
into steam.
3. Turbine and Generator: The steam is used to rotate a turbine, which is connected to a generator
that produces electricity.
4. Re-injection: After the steam cools down and condenses, the water is re-injected into the Earth to
maintain pressure and sustainability.
Applications:
Geothermal energy, derived from the Earth’s internal heat, is used in various sectors for both electricity
generation and direct heating.
Key Applications:
1. Electricity Generation
o Geothermal power plants convert underground heat into electricity, especially in geologically
active areas like Iceland, the Philippines, and parts of the U.S.
2. District and Residential Heating
o Geothermal heat is directly used to warm homes, buildings, and entire communities through
district heating systems.
3. Agriculture and Greenhouses
o Provides controlled heat for greenhouses to grow crops in cold climates and supports
aquaculture (like fish farming).
4. Industrial Uses
o Used in drying foods, heating water for dairy processing, and other industrial heating
processes.
5. Hot Springs and Spas
o Naturally heated water is used in spa tourism and wellness resorts.
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Piezoelectric Material (4 Marks)
Piezoelectric materials are materials that generate an electric charge when mechanical stress (like
pressure or vibration) is applied to them. This property is known as the piezoelectric effect.
Working Principle:
When a piezoelectric material is pressed or deformed, it produces an electric voltage due to the movement of
internal charges. This effect is also reversible—applying electricity can cause the material to change shape
(vibrate).
Examples:
Natural: Quartz
Synthetic: Lead zirconate titanate (PZT), Barium titanate
Applications:
Ocean and tidal energy systems convert the natural movement of water (waves, tides, and currents) into
renewable energy.
Tidal Energy:
Principle: Generated by the rise and fall of tides caused by gravitational forces of the moon and sun.
Types:
o Tidal Stream: Uses kinetic energy from tidal currents.
o Tidal Range: Uses the difference in water levels (high and low tides).
Energy Generation: Tidal turbines or barrages capture the energy from water movement.
Wave Energy:
Applications:
UNIT 6
21
57 What are the environmental protection rules in the world
Environmental Protection Rules in the World (4 Marks)
Environmental protection rules are laws and regulations enforced globally to conserve natural resources and
prevent pollution. These rules aim to ensure sustainable development and safeguard human health and
ecosystems.
1. The Paris Agreement (2015) – A global treaty to combat climate change by limiting global
warming to below 2°C.
2. The Kyoto Protocol (1997) – Focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions in developed
countries.
3. The Basel Convention (1989) – Controls the transboundary movement and disposal of hazardous
waste.
4. The Montreal Protocol (1987) – Aims to phase out substances that deplete the ozone layer.
5. The Convention on Biological Diversity (1992) – Promotes the conservation and sustainable use of
biodiversity.
Purpose:
Sustainable environmental development refers to a method of growth that meets the needs of the present
without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It focuses on balancing
environmental protection, economic growth, and social well-being.
Key Features:
Efficient Use of Resources: Using natural resources like water, energy, and land wisely to reduce
waste.
Environmental Protection: Minimizing pollution, conserving biodiversity, and maintaining
ecosystem health.
Long-term Thinking: Encouraging practices that ensure resources are available for the future.
Social and Economic Equity: Promoting development that benefits all sections of society.
Examples:
UNIT 3
1. What is pollution ?
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= Pollution is the introduction of harmful substances or energy into the environment
that causes negative
2. Water Pollution – Contamination of water bodies like rivers, lakes, and oceans (e.g.,
sewage,
4. Noise Pollution – Excessive sound from traffic, industry, or construction that harms
human or
animal life.
5. Light Pollution – Excessive artificial light that disrupts natural darkness and
ecosystems.
Pollution affects human health, wildlife, climate, and ecosystems. Reducing pollution
typically involves
For example:
If a river is polluted, it might contain chemicals, trash, or sewage that make the
water unsafe to
Polluted air might have smoke or toxic gases that are bad for people to breathe.
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3. What are the natural source of air pollution ?
= Natural sources of air pollution are pollutants released into the air from natural
events, not caused by
1. Volcanoes – Release ash, sulfur dioxide, and other gases into the air.
3. Dust Storms – Blow large amounts of dust and sand into the atmosphere.
4. Pollen – Plants release pollen into the air, which can affect air quality.
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6. Sea spray – Ocean waves release salt and other particles into the air.
7. Rotting vegetation and wetlands – Release gases like methane and hydrogen
sulfide
the air. Here are some common ways people pollute the air:
1. Burning fossil fuels – Cars, buses, trucks, factories, and power plants burn coal, oil,
and gas,
releasing smoke and gases like carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides.
3. Burning garbage and crop waste – This produces toxic smoke and fine particles.
4. Use of chemical sprays – Aerosol sprays and paints release harmful chemicals into
the air.
5. Deforestation – Cutting down trees reduces the amount of clean air and can
increase dust and
smoke.
These human activities can cause health problems, harm animals, and contribute to
global issues like
climate change.
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5. Air pollution from refrigerants , boiler ?
= Yes, refrigerants and boilers also contribute to air pollution:
1. Refrigerants:
Older types, like CFCs and HCFCs, can escape into the air and damage the ozone
layer, which
Some newer refrigerants, such as HFCs, do not harm the ozone layer but still act as
powerful
2. Boilers:
Boilers are used to heat water for homes, buildings, and industries.
When boilers burn fuels like coal, oil, or natural gas, they release carbon dioxide
(CO₂), carbon
These gases cause air pollution and contribute to acid rain, smog, and respiratory
problems.
1. Particulate Matter (PM): Tiny solid or liquid particles like dust, smoke, and soot that
can harm
2. Gaseous Pollutants: Includes harmful gases such as carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur
dioxide (SO₂),
o Commonly used for measuring particulate matter (e.g., PM2.5, PM10), SO₂, NO₂, etc.
o Example: CO = 3 ppm.
1. Dispersion:
Air pollutants spread through the atmosphere due to wind and turbulence. Faster
winds usually
2. Temperature Inversion:
A layer of warm air traps cooler air (and pollutants) near the ground, preventing
vertical mixing and
3. Solar Radiation:
smog.
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4. Atmospheric Stability:
Stable conditions (calm weather) limit vertical air movement, allowing pollutants to
accumulate
A bag filter is an air pollution control device used to remove particulate matter from
industrial exhaust
gases. It consists of fabric filter bags that trap dust particles as polluted air passes
through them. Clean air
exits while dust collects on the fabric surface, which is later removed by shaking or
pulse-jet cleaning.
Key Points:
= Cyclone Separator:
A cyclone separator is a device used to remove larger dust particles from polluted air
using centrifugal
force. Dirty air enters the separator tangentially, creating a circular motion. Heavier
particles are thrown to
the walls and fall to the bottom, while clean air exits from the top.
Key Points:
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An electrostatic precipitator is an air pollution control device that removes fine
particles like dust and
smoke from exhaust gases using electrical charges. Polluted air passes through
electrodes where particles
get electrically charged and then are attracted to oppositely charged plates, where
they stick and are later
removed.
Key Points:
1. Source Control:
2. Process Modification:
o Use devices like bag filters, cyclone separators, and electrostatic precipitators to
remove
laws.
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Remove fine particulate matter using electrostatic charge.
Remove gaseous pollutants like SO₂ and NOₓ by using liquid or dry reagents.
Reduces nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) by converting them into nitrogen and water using a
catalyst.
These techniques offer high efficiency and are used in power plants, refineries, and
industries for
1. Traffic Noise:
2. Industrial Noise:
3. Construction Activities:
A handheld device used to measure sound intensity in decibels (dB). It records the
level of noise at
a specific location.
levels.
3. Noise Dosimeter:
Installed at fixed locations to continuously measure and record noise levels, often
linked to data
These devices help assess noise pollution levels in various environments, from
workplaces to urban areas
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