Geography - GEOG 230

Course Description

This course presents an overview of energy resources and policies. Learners will analyze the global distribution and use of energy resources. They also will examine the advantages and disadvantages of different energy resources, including exploration of sustainable energy systems and alternative energy sources. Course topics include energy units, energy conservation, fossil fuels, renewable energy sources, nuclear power, electricity, air pollution, energy policies and global climate change.

Prerequisites

(A requirement that must be completed before taking this course.)

Course Competencies

Upon successful completion of the course, the student should be able to:

• Describe energy units.
• Analyze the global distribution of the four (4) forms of coal (lignite, subbituminous, bituminous and anthracite).
• Analyze the global distribution of crude oil, oil shale and oil sand reserves.
• Summarize the advantages and disadvantages of using natural gas as an energy source.
• Distinguish active from passive solar energy.
• Evaluate the potential for alternative energy sources, such as wind power, biofuels and geothermal energy to meet global energy needs.
• Evaluate methods individuals can employ to conserve energy.
• Compare new energy technologies developed in the transportation sector.
• Explain the relationship between energy use and air pollution.
• Compare energy resources to determine what resources should be used to promote sustainable development.
• Develop a sustainable energy plan that includes a varied energy portfolio of conventional and alternative sources of energy.

Course Schedule

Currently no sections of this class are being offered.