Non Conventional Energy Source MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Non Conventional Energy Source - Download Free PDF

Last updated on Jun 17, 2025

Latest Non Conventional Energy Source MCQ Objective Questions

Non Conventional Energy Source Question 1:

One big CHALLENGE with Solar Panels (PV) compared to Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) is:

  1. they have lots of moving parts, making maintenance costly
  2. they need costly batteries to store power for nighttime use
  3. they completely stop working on cloudy days
  4. they need high-tech factories to be made 

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 2 : they need costly batteries to store power for nighttime use

Non Conventional Energy Source Question 1 Detailed Solution

Explanation:

Solar Panels (Photovoltaic - PV) vs. Concentrating Solar Power (CSP):

Definition: Solar Panels (PV) and Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) are two prominent technologies used to harness solar energy. PV panels directly convert sunlight into electricity using semiconductor materials, while CSP systems use mirrors or lenses to concentrate sunlight onto a receiver to produce heat, which is then converted into electricity using a turbine or engine.

Correct Option Analysis:

The correct option is:

Option 2: They need costly batteries to store power for nighttime use.

This statement highlights one of the major challenges associated with Solar Panels (PV) compared to CSP systems. Solar Panels generate electricity during the daytime when sunlight is available, but they do not inherently have storage capabilities. To ensure a continuous power supply during nighttime or cloudy periods, it is necessary to pair PV systems with energy storage solutions, typically batteries.

While CSP systems often use thermal storage methods (e.g., molten salt) to store heat energy for later use, PV systems rely on batteries, which are expensive and can significantly increase the overall cost of the system. The integration of batteries into PV setups also presents challenges related to scalability, efficiency, and environmental concerns due to the mining and disposal of battery materials.

Detailed Explanation:

1. The Need for Energy Storage:

  • Solar Panels (PV) produce electricity only when sunlight is available, meaning their output is intermittent and depends on the weather and time of day.
  • To achieve a stable and reliable energy supply, PV systems often require batteries to store excess energy generated during the day for use during nighttime or cloudy periods.
  • The cost of batteries, such as lithium-ion batteries, is a significant factor in the overall expense of a PV system. Additionally, battery lifespan and efficiency can impact the long-term viability of the system.

2. Cost Implications:

  • Batteries are one of the most expensive components of a PV system. Their cost can rival or even exceed the cost of the solar panels themselves.
  • The maintenance and replacement of batteries add to the operational costs, making PV systems less economically competitive compared to CSP in some cases.
  • The environmental impact of battery production and disposal is another concern, as the extraction of materials like lithium and cobalt can cause ecological harm.

3. Comparison with CSP:

  • CSP systems typically use thermal storage techniques, such as molten salt storage, which are more cost-effective and environmentally friendly compared to batteries.
  • Thermal storage allows CSP systems to generate power even after sunset, providing a more consistent and reliable energy output.

4. Advances in Battery Technology:

  • Research and development in battery technology, including solid-state batteries and flow batteries, aim to reduce costs and improve efficiency, which could make PV systems more competitive in the future.
  • Despite these advancements, the current reliance on costly batteries remains a significant challenge for PV systems.

Conclusion:

Option 2 correctly identifies the major challenge of Solar Panels (PV) needing costly batteries for nighttime energy storage. This reliance on batteries increases the cost and complexity of PV systems compared to CSP systems, which often utilize more efficient and cost-effective thermal storage solutions.

Additional Information

Analysis of Other Options:

Option 1: They have lots of moving parts, making maintenance costly.

This statement is incorrect for Solar Panels (PV). PV systems have no moving parts, which is one of their advantages over CSP systems. CSP systems involve components like mirrors, tracking systems, and turbines, which require regular maintenance and have higher operational costs due to their mechanical complexity.

Option 3: They completely stop working on cloudy days.

This statement is misleading. While the efficiency of PV systems decreases on cloudy days due to reduced sunlight, they do not "completely stop working." Advanced PV panels can still generate some electricity under diffuse light conditions, although at a lower output. CSP systems, on the other hand, rely on direct sunlight for optimal performance and are more affected by cloudy weather.

Option 4: They need high-tech factories to be made.

This statement is partially correct but not unique to PV systems. Both PV and CSP technologies require specialized manufacturing facilities. PV panels involve semiconductor fabrication, which necessitates high-tech factories, but CSP systems also require precision engineering for mirrors, receivers, and tracking systems. Therefore, this challenge is not exclusive to PV systems.

Conclusion:

While all the options highlight challenges related to solar technologies, Option 2 accurately identifies the significant issue of costly batteries for energy storage in PV systems, making it the correct choice. Understanding these challenges is essential for selecting the appropriate solar technology based on specific needs and conditions.

Non Conventional Energy Source Question 2:

Why are wind turbine blades made of glass fibre reinforced polyester?

  1. To reduce cost
  2. To provide lightweight strength and durability
  3. To increase the efficiency of power transmission
  4. To make them heavier for stability

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 2 : To provide lightweight strength and durability

Non Conventional Energy Source Question 2 Detailed Solution

Explanation:

Wind Turbine Blades Made of Glass Fibre Reinforced Polyester

Definition: Wind turbine blades are typically made of composite materials such as glass fibre reinforced polyester (GFRP) because these materials offer a combination of lightweight strength, durability, and flexibility, which are crucial for the efficient and safe operation of wind turbines. GFRP consists of fine glass fibres embedded in a polyester resin matrix, forming a composite material that exhibits superior mechanical properties compared to its individual components.

Correct Option Analysis:

The correct option is:

Option 2: To provide lightweight strength and durability.

Wind turbine blades must be lightweight to reduce the load on the turbine structure, including the tower and the nacelle, and to ensure that they can rotate efficiently even at low wind speeds. At the same time, they must be strong enough to withstand the forces exerted by high winds, as well as the fatigue caused by constant rotation and varying wind conditions.

Glass fibre reinforced polyester is ideal for this purpose because:

  • Lightweight: Glass fibres are much lighter than metals or other traditional materials, making GFRP an excellent choice for reducing the overall weight of the blades.
  • High Strength-to-Weight Ratio: GFRP exhibits a high strength-to-weight ratio, allowing the blades to be strong enough to endure extreme forces while remaining lightweight.
  • Durability: The material is resistant to environmental factors such as corrosion, UV radiation, and temperature variations. This ensures that the blades can function effectively for decades without significant degradation.
  • Flexibility: GFRP blades can flex slightly under high wind loads, which helps to dissipate energy and reduce the risk of structural failure.
  • Ease of Manufacturing: GFRP can be molded into complex shapes, allowing for the aerodynamic designs required for efficient wind energy conversion.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to other high-performance materials like carbon fibre, GFRP is more cost-effective, making it a practical choice for large-scale wind turbine production.

These properties make glass fibre reinforced polyester the most suitable material for wind turbine blades, balancing performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness.

Important Information:

To further understand the question, let’s evaluate the other options:

Option 1: To reduce cost.

While cost is an important factor in the selection of materials, it is not the primary reason for using glass fibre reinforced polyester in wind turbine blades. The performance characteristics, such as lightweight strength and durability, are more critical. Cost-effectiveness is a secondary benefit of using GFRP compared to other high-performance materials like carbon fibre.

Option 3: To increase the efficiency of power transmission.

This option is incorrect because the material of the blades does not directly influence the efficiency of power transmission. Power transmission efficiency is more related to the design and operation of the turbine’s generator and gearbox, as well as the quality of the electrical components. The material of the blades primarily affects the aerodynamic efficiency and structural integrity of the turbine.

Option 4: To make them heavier for stability.

This option is incorrect because heavier blades would increase the load on the turbine structure and reduce its efficiency. Lightweight materials like GFRP are preferred because they allow the blades to start rotating at lower wind speeds and reduce the stresses on the turbine components, enhancing the overall performance and lifespan of the system.

Conclusion:

Wind turbine blades are made of glass fibre reinforced polyester primarily to provide lightweight strength and durability, which are essential for their efficient and long-lasting operation. The properties of GFRP, including its high strength-to-weight ratio, resistance to environmental factors, and ease of manufacturing, make it the ideal material for this application. Understanding the requirements of wind turbine blades helps in appreciating the role of material selection in achieving optimal performance and cost-effectiveness in renewable energy systems.

Non Conventional Energy Source Question 3:

If wind speed doubles, the Wind Power Density increases by a factor of ________.

  1. 6
  2. 8
  3. 4
  4. 2

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 2 : 8

Non Conventional Energy Source Question 3 Detailed Solution

Explanation:

Wind Power Density and Its Dependence on Wind Speed:

Definition: Wind Power Density (WPD) is a measure of the power available in the wind per unit area perpendicular to the wind direction. It is an important parameter for evaluating the potential of wind energy at a particular site and is given by the formula:

WPD = (1/2) × ρ × V³

Here:

  • ρ is the air density (typically around 1.225 kg/m³ at sea level and standard atmospheric conditions).
  • V is the wind speed in meters per second (m/s).
  • The factor of 1/2 arises from the kinetic energy equation.

From the formula, it is evident that wind power density is directly proportional to the cube of the wind speed (), meaning that even a small increase in wind speed results in a significant increase in the power density.

Correct Option Analysis:

The question asks what happens to the wind power density when the wind speed doubles. Let us analyze this step-by-step:

WPD_initial = (1/2) × ρ × V³

WPD_new = (1/2) × ρ × (2V)³

WPD_new = (1/2) × ρ × 8V³

WPD_new = 8 × [(1/2) × ρ × V³]

  • Let the initial wind speed be V.
  • Substitute the initial wind speed into the formula for WPD:
  • Now, if the wind speed doubles, the new wind speed becomes 2V.
  • Substitute the doubled wind speed into the formula for WPD:
  • Simplify the expression:
  • From this, it is clear that the new wind power density is 8 times the initial wind power density.

Therefore, when the wind speed doubles, the wind power density increases by a factor of 8.

The correct answer is: Option 2 (8).

Additional Information

To further understand the analysis, let’s evaluate the other options:

Option 1: The wind power density increases by a factor of 6.

This option is incorrect because the relationship between wind power density and wind speed is cubic. A doubling of wind speed results in an 8-fold increase, not a 6-fold increase.

Option 3: The wind power density increases by a factor of 4.

This option is also incorrect. A 4-fold increase would imply that the wind power density is directly proportional to the square of the wind speed (), but in reality, it is proportional to the cube of the wind speed ().

Option 4: The wind power density increases by a factor of 2.

This option is incorrect because a doubling of wind speed does not result in a doubling of wind power density. Instead, the cubic relationship means the power density increases by a factor of 8.

Option 5: No option provided.

This option is not relevant to the question, as the correct answer has already been determined.

Conclusion:

Understanding the cubic relationship between wind speed and wind power density is crucial for evaluating the potential of wind energy. As demonstrated, doubling the wind speed leads to an 8-fold increase in wind power density, highlighting the significant impact of wind speed variations on energy generation. This principle is central to the design and optimization of wind energy systems, emphasizing the importance of selecting sites with consistently high wind speeds to maximize energy output.

Non Conventional Energy Source Question 4:

Which of the following is NOT an example of solid biomass?

  1. Natural gas
  2. Firewood
  3. Sugarcane bagasse
  4. Wood pellets

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : Natural gas

Non Conventional Energy Source Question 4 Detailed Solution

Explanation:

Solid Biomass and Its Examples:

Definition: Solid biomass refers to organic materials derived from plants or animals that are used as fuel for energy generation. These materials are typically in solid form and can include wood, agricultural residues, and other biodegradable materials. Solid biomass is an important renewable energy source due to its widespread availability and ability to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Examples of Solid Biomass:

  • Firewood: Firewood is a classic example of solid biomass. It consists of logs or branches obtained from trees and is commonly used as fuel for heating and cooking purposes. Firewood is one of the oldest forms of biomass energy.
  • Sugarcane Bagasse: Bagasse is the fibrous residue left after extracting juice from sugarcane during the sugar production process. It is often used as fuel in boilers to generate steam and electricity in sugar mills, making it a valuable form of solid biomass.
  • Wood Pellets: Wood pellets are compressed forms of wood, typically made from sawdust or other wood residues. They are widely used in pellet stoves and boilers for heating and energy production. Their high energy density and ease of handling make them a popular choice for solid biomass fuel.

Correct Option Analysis:

The correct option is:

Option 1: Natural gas.

Natural gas is NOT an example of solid biomass. Unlike firewood, sugarcane bagasse, and wood pellets, natural gas is a fossil fuel that exists in a gaseous state. It primarily consists of methane and is extracted from underground reservoirs. Natural gas is widely used for heating, electricity generation, and as a fuel for vehicles, but it does not fall under the category of solid biomass. Solid biomass is defined by its solid form and organic origin, whereas natural gas is a non-renewable energy source derived from ancient organic matter.

Important Information:

To further understand the analysis, let’s evaluate the other options:

Option 2: Firewood.

Firewood is a clear example of solid biomass. It is obtained from trees and is widely used as a renewable energy source for heating and cooking. Firewood represents one of the simplest and most traditional forms of biomass fuel.

Option 3: Sugarcane Bagasse.

Sugarcane bagasse is another example of solid biomass. It is the fibrous residue left over after extracting juice from sugarcane. Bagasse is commonly used as fuel in sugar mills and power plants for generating steam and electricity. This makes it a valuable renewable energy resource.

Option 4: Wood Pellets.

Wood pellets are a modern form of solid biomass fuel. They are produced by compressing wood residues like sawdust into small cylindrical pellets. Due to their high energy density and ease of transport, wood pellets are widely used for heating and energy generation.

Conclusion:

Solid biomass plays a crucial role in renewable energy generation, offering an alternative to fossil fuels. Firewood, sugarcane bagasse, and wood pellets are clear examples of solid biomass due to their organic origin and solid form. On the other hand, natural gas is a fossil fuel in gaseous form and does not belong to the category of solid biomass. Understanding these distinctions is essential for accurately categorizing energy sources and promoting sustainable energy practices.

Non Conventional Energy Source Question 5:

Which of the following factors most significantly affects the efficiency of a Fresnel reflector in a solar concentrator system?

  1. The number of mirror strips and their alignment accuracy
  2. The temperature of the environment 
  3. The colour of the reflector material
  4. The wavelength of incident light

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : The number of mirror strips and their alignment accuracy

Non Conventional Energy Source Question 5 Detailed Solution

Explanation:

Efficiency of Fresnel Reflector in a Solar Concentrator System

Definition: A Fresnel reflector is a type of solar concentrator that uses a series of flat or slightly curved mirror strips to concentrate sunlight onto a specific target, such as a receiver tube or a photovoltaic cell. This system is widely used in solar thermal and photovoltaic applications to improve energy efficiency by concentrating sunlight.

Correct Option Analysis:

The correct option is:

Option 1: The number of mirror strips and their alignment accuracy.

The efficiency of a Fresnel reflector in a solar concentrator system is significantly influenced by the number of mirror strips and their alignment accuracy. This is because:

  • Number of Mirror Strips: The more mirror strips a Fresnel reflector has, the higher the precision in concentrating sunlight onto the target. A larger number of strips allows for better division of the reflected sunlight and minimizes energy loss due to gaps or misalignment.
  • Alignment Accuracy: The alignment of the mirror strips is critical for ensuring that the reflected sunlight is focused precisely on the target. Even a slight misalignment can result in a significant loss of concentrated sunlight, reducing the system's overall efficiency. Advanced tracking systems and precise calibration are often employed to maintain alignment accuracy.

In essence, the number of mirror strips determines the potential concentration capability of the system, while alignment accuracy ensures that this potential is effectively utilized. Both factors work together to maximize the efficiency of the Fresnel reflector in capturing and concentrating solar energy.

Working Principle:

In a Fresnel reflector system, sunlight is reflected by the mirror strips and directed towards a focal point or line. The concentration of sunlight at this focal point increases the thermal or photovoltaic energy output. The efficiency of this process depends on how well the sunlight is concentrated, which in turn relies on the design and alignment of the mirror strips.

Advantages:

  • Cost-effective compared to parabolic concentrators due to simpler construction.
  • Lightweight and easier to install and maintain.
  • Can achieve high levels of concentration when properly aligned.

Disadvantages:

  • Requires precise alignment and tracking systems to maintain efficiency.
  • Prone to energy losses if the mirror strips are misaligned or if there are gaps between them.

Additional Information

To further understand the analysis, let’s evaluate the other options:

Option 2: The temperature of the environment.

While the temperature of the environment can influence the overall performance of a solar concentrator system, its impact on the efficiency of the Fresnel reflector itself is minimal. Environmental temperature primarily affects the thermal losses in the receiver and the efficiency of the energy conversion process, not the reflector's ability to concentrate sunlight.

Option 3: The colour of the reflector material.

The colour of the reflector material is not a significant factor in the efficiency of a Fresnel reflector. What matters more is the reflectivity of the material. Highly reflective materials, regardless of their colour, are better at concentrating sunlight. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

Option 4: The wavelength of incident light.

The wavelength of incident light can affect the reflectivity of the mirror material to some extent, but this is a secondary consideration. Most Fresnel reflectors are designed to work efficiently across the spectrum of sunlight. The wavelength of light is not as critical as the number of mirror strips and their alignment accuracy in determining efficiency.

Conclusion:

The efficiency of a Fresnel reflector in a solar concentrator system is primarily determined by the number of mirror strips and their alignment accuracy. These factors directly influence the system's ability to concentrate sunlight onto the target, making them the most significant contributors to efficiency. While other factors like environmental temperature, reflector material properties, and incident light wavelength play a role, their impact is comparatively minor.

Top Non Conventional Energy Source MCQ Objective Questions

The Source of Ocean Thermal Energy is

  1. Molten Magma at the base of Ocean
  2. Frictional force among the tides
  3. Plate movement near mid-oceanic ridges
  4. None of the above

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4 : None of the above

Non Conventional Energy Source Question 6 Detailed Solution

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The correct answer is None of the above.

Key Points

  • Ocean Thermal Energy also called Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) refers to a method of using the temperature difference between the deep parts of the sea which are hot and the shallow parts of the sea which are cold to run a heat engine and produce useful work. Basically, Ocean thermal energy conversion is an electricity generation system. 
  • Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion uses the ocean thermal gradient between a cooler deep and warmer shallow or surface seawaters to run a heat engine and produce useful work, usually in the form of electricity.

Additional Information 

  • The water at the surface of the sea or ocean is heated by the Sun while the water in deeper sections is relatively cold.
  • This difference in temperature is exploited to obtain energy in ocean-thermal-energy conversion plants.
  • These plants can operate if the temperature difference between the water at the surface and water at depths up to 2 km is 293 K (20C) or more.
  • The warm surface- water is used to boil a volatile liquid like ammonia.
  • The vapors of the liquid are then used to run the turbine of the generator.
  • The cold water from the depth of the ocean is pumped up and condenses vapor again to liquid.
  • The energy potential from the sea (tidal energy, wave energy, and ocean thermal energy) is quite large, but efficient commercial exploitation is difficult.

The operating temperature of a central receiver power tower of solar plant is_______.

  1. 500-1000°C
  2. 100-200°C
  3. 5000-10,000°C
  4. 1000-5000°C

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : 500-1000°C

Non Conventional Energy Source Question 7 Detailed Solution

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Central receiver system

Central receiver (or power tower) systems use a field of distributed mirrors also known as the heliostats that individually track the sun and focus the sunlight on the top of a tower.

By concentrating the sunlight 600–1000 times, they achieve temperatures from 500°C to 1000°C. 

A heat-transfer fluid heated in the receiver is used to heat a working fluid, which, in turn, is used in a conventional turbine generator to produce electricity. 

Arrange the following in the increasing order of energy released during their processing as a biomass.

A) Bagasse

B) Municipal solid waste

C) Wheat and rice straw

D) Wood pellets

  1. C - A - B - D
  2. D - B - C - A
  3. B - D - A - C
  4. A - B - C - D

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 2 : D - B - C - A

Non Conventional Energy Source Question 8 Detailed Solution

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Biomass

Biomass is a renewable organic material that comes from plants and animals.

Biomass contains stored chemical energy from the sun that is produced by plants through photosynthesis. Biomass can be burned directly for heat or converted to liquid and gaseous fuels through various processes.

Some examples of biomass fuels are wood, crops, manure, and cow dung.

Biomass

Calorific value

A) Bagasse

19.6 MJ/Kg

B) Municipal solid waste

10 - 14 MJ/Kg

C) Wheat and rice straw

14 - 15 MJ/Kg

D) Wood pellets

4.4 - 4.5 MJ/Kg

 

The correct sequence in increasing order is:

D

The correct answer is option 2.

Choose the INCORRECT statement with respect to use of conventional sources in electrical energy generation.

  1. The fuels are likely to be depleted in near future, forcing us to conserve them and find alternative resources. 
  2. Toxic, hazardous fumes and residues pollute the environment.
  3. Maintenance costs are high.
  4. Overall conversion efficiency is very good.

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4 : Overall conversion efficiency is very good.

Non Conventional Energy Source Question 9 Detailed Solution

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The two major sources of energy can be classified under:

  • Conventional Sources
  • Non-Conventional Sources

Conventional Sources:

  • It is also known as non-renewable sources of energy.
  • It is available in limited quantity apart from hydro-electric power.


Non-Conventional Sources:

  • It is also known as renewable sources of energy
  • It uses again and again without depletion.
  • Examples include solar energy, bio-energy, tidal energy, and wind energy.
     

Difference Between Conventional and Non-conventional Sources of Energy:

Conventional sources of energy

Non-conventional sources of energy

These sources of energy are also known as a non-renewable source of energy.

These sources of energy are also known as a renewable source of energy.

They find both commercial and industrial purposes.

Most of the cases it found for household purposes.

These can be considered to be one of the reasons for the cause of pollution.

These are not responsible for the cause of pollution.

The overall efficiency of the energy source is not high.

The overall efficiency of the energy source is low.

These sources of energy are not environmentally friendly.

These sources of energy are environmentally friendly.

Application: Thermal Power Plant, Nuclear Power Plant, Gas and Diesel Power Plant, etc

Application: Solar Plant, Tidal Plant, Geo-Thermal Plant, etc

Which of the following is a commonly used material in solar cells?

  1. Alunimium
  2. Germanium
  3. Silicon
  4. Copper

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 3 : Silicon

Non Conventional Energy Source Question 10 Detailed Solution

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The correct answer is Silicon.

Key Points

Concept:

  • Solar cell: A solar cell, or photovoltaic cell, is an electrical device that converts the energy of light (Sunlight) directly into electricity by the photovoltaic effect, which is a physical and chemical phenomenon.
  • Solar cells are made of semiconductor materials like silicon, cadmium telluride, and copper indium gallium selenide.
  • The working principle of solar cells is based on the photovoltaic effect.
  • The photovoltaic effect is the production of electricity by a material when it is exposed to light.
  • The common single-junction silicon solar cell can produce a maximum open-circuit voltage of approximately 0.5 - 0.6 V.

Explanation:

  • For making the solar cell, semiconductor materials are used such that silicon, cadmium telluride, and copper indium gallium selenide.
  • Copper, Iron, and Aluminium are conductors and metals they are used to make wires and various metallic object.

So, The material is used for making Solar cells is Silicon.

Which of the following is a conventional source of energy?

  1. Wind
  2. Biomass
  3. Fossil fuels
  4. Solar energy

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 3 : Fossil fuels

Non Conventional Energy Source Question 11 Detailed Solution

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The two major sources of energy can be classified under:

  • Conventional Sources
  • Non-Conventional Sources

Conventional Sources:

  • It is also known as a non-renewable source of energy.
  • It is available in limited quantity apart from hydroelectric power.


Non-Conventional Sources:

  • It is also known as a renewable source of energy
  • It uses again and again without depletion.
  • Examples include solar energy, bio-energy, tidal energy, and wind energy.
     

Additional Information

Difference Between Conventional and Non-conventional Sources of Energy:

Conventional sources of energy

Non-conventional sources of energy

These sources of energy are also known as a non-renewable source of energy.

These sources of energy are also known as a renewable source of energy.

They find both commercial and industrial purposes.

Most of the cases it found for household purposes.

These can be considered to be one of the reasons for the cause of pollution.

These are not responsible for the cause of pollution.

The overall efficiency of the energy source is not high.

The overall efficiency of the energy source is low.

These sources of energy are not environmentally friendly.

These sources of energy are environmentally friendly.

Application: Thermal Power Plant, Nuclear Power Plant, Gas and Diesel Power Plant, etc

Application: Solar Plant, Tidal Plant, Geo-Thermal Plant, etc

Which type of solar cell gives the highest efficiency?

  1. Mono crystalline
  2. Polycrystalline germanium
  3. Thin film
  4. Polycrystalline silicon

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : Mono crystalline

Non Conventional Energy Source Question 12 Detailed Solution

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Different types of Solar cell and their efficiency is shown below:

Solar Cell Type Efficiency Advantage Disadvantage
Monocrystalline Solar Panels ~20% High-efficiency rate, optimized for commercial use, high lifetime value Expensive
Polycrystalline Solar Panels ~15% Lower price Sensitive to high temperatures, lower lifespan & slightly less space efficiency
Polycrystalline germanium ~3-4% Lower price Less efficiency
Amorphous Silicon Solar Panels ~7-10% Relatively low costs, easy to produce & flexible shorter warranties & lifespan

 

Out of the following solar cell, the Monocrystalline panel has higher efficiency but is expensive too.

Wind energy is harnessed by using _______.

  1. Electron generator
  2. Turbine generator 
  3. Vapor generator
  4. Steam generator

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 2 : Turbine generator 

Non Conventional Energy Source Question 13 Detailed Solution

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  • Wind energy is harnessed by using a wind turbine generator.
  • Wind turbines convert the energy in wind to electricity by rotating propeller-like blades around a rotor. The rotor turns the drive shaft, which turns an electric generator.
  • Three key factors affect the amount of energy a turbine can harness from the wind are wind speed, air density, and swept area.
  • At Hydropower plant salient pole type alternator is used to convert hydro energy into electrical energy.
  • Steam turbine-driven generators (Turbo generators) are commonly used in solar thermal electric power plants, coal, geothermal, nuclear, waste incineration plants, and natural gas power plants.

Which of the following is NOT one of the advantages of tidal power generation?

  1. Large area of valuable land is not required.
  2. As compared to other sources of energy, this is economical.
  3. It is completely independent of the precipitation and its uncertainty, besides being in exhaustible.
  4. It is free from pollution.

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 2 : As compared to other sources of energy, this is economical.

Non Conventional Energy Source Question 14 Detailed Solution

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Advantages of Tidal Energy:

  • Tides are easily predictable
  • Inexpensive to maintain
  • Reliable and renewable source of energy
  • High energy density than other renewable energy forms
  • It produces no greenhouse gases or other waste
  • Vertical-axis turbines and offshore turbines are inexpensive to build and have a less environmental impact
  • Tidal turbines are 80% efficient, which is higher than solar or wind energy generators.
  • Barrages reduce the damage of high tidal surges on the land.
     

Disadvantages of Tidal Energy:

  • Initial construction cost is very high and not economical.
  • Formation of silt behind the barrage.
  • Effect on animals and plants living near tidal stations.
  • Very few suitable sites for constructing barrages.
  • Disturbs migration of living creatures in the ocean.
  • Water cannot be replenished, and hence dirt gets settled within the coast.
  • It produces power for only about 10 h of the day when the tide is moving in and out.

Additional Information 

Tidal Energy:

It is a kind of Non-conventional or renewable energy source.

Tides are alternating rise and fall of water level of the sea which is caused by the gravitational action of the kinetic energy of sun and moon on the water and earth.

The waveform of Tides of Sea:

Basic principle of Tidal Power Plant:

  • A dam is constructed in such as way that a basin gets separated from the sea and a difference in water level is obtained between basin and sea.
  • The basin is filled during high tides and emptied during the low tides through the turbine.
  • The potential energy of water stored in the basin is used to drive the turbine which turns into electrical energy by means of a generator.

The gas which is NOT produced in the process of gaseous biomass is ________.

  1. neon
  2. methane
  3. hydrogen
  4. carbon dioxide

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : neon

Non Conventional Energy Source Question 15 Detailed Solution

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The correct answer is option 1.

Biomass

  • Biomass is renewable organic material that comes from living organisms, such as plants and animals.
  • The most common biomass materials used for energy are plants, wood, and waste. 
  • Biomass can be converted into useful products such as bio-fuels, bio-char, syngas, power, heat, and fertilizer by a process called biomass gasification.
  • Burning biomass releases methane, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and other pollutants and particulates.
  • If these pollutants are not captured and recycled, burning biomass can create smog and severe health problems.

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