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Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion: Utilizing Temperature Differences in the Ocean

Description: Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) is a technology that utilizes the temperature difference between the warm surface waters and the cold deep waters of the ocean to generate electricity. This quiz delves into the principles, applications, and challenges associated with OTEC.
Number of Questions: 15
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Tags: ocean thermal energy conversion renewable energy temperature gradient ocean energy
Attempted 0/15 Correct 0 Score 0

What is the primary energy source for Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC)?

  1. Sunlight

  2. Wind

  3. Temperature Difference in the Ocean

  4. Fossil Fuels


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

OTEC harnesses the temperature difference between the warm surface waters and the cold deep waters of the ocean to generate electricity.

Which type of OTEC system utilizes a closed-loop cycle?

  1. Closed-Cycle OTEC

  2. Open-Cycle OTEC

  3. Hybrid OTEC

  4. None of the above


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Closed-Cycle OTEC systems use a working fluid, such as ammonia or a hydrocarbon, to transfer heat from the warm surface waters to the cold deep waters, generating electricity in the process.

What is the primary advantage of Closed-Cycle OTEC systems?

  1. Higher Efficiency

  2. Lower Cost

  3. Reduced Environmental Impact

  4. Increased Reliability


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Closed-Cycle OTEC systems have higher efficiency compared to Open-Cycle OTEC systems due to the use of a working fluid with a lower boiling point.

Which type of OTEC system directly uses the warm surface waters to generate electricity?

  1. Closed-Cycle OTEC

  2. Open-Cycle OTEC

  3. Hybrid OTEC

  4. None of the above


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Open-Cycle OTEC systems directly use the warm surface waters to generate electricity by evaporating a working fluid, such as seawater, and driving a turbine with the resulting steam.

What is the primary disadvantage of Open-Cycle OTEC systems?

  1. Lower Efficiency

  2. Higher Cost

  3. Increased Environmental Impact

  4. Reduced Reliability


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Open-Cycle OTEC systems have lower efficiency compared to Closed-Cycle OTEC systems due to the use of seawater as the working fluid, which has a higher boiling point.

Which type of OTEC system combines the features of both Closed-Cycle and Open-Cycle OTEC systems?

  1. Closed-Cycle OTEC

  2. Open-Cycle OTEC

  3. Hybrid OTEC

  4. None of the above


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Hybrid OTEC systems combine the features of both Closed-Cycle and Open-Cycle OTEC systems, utilizing a working fluid in a closed-loop cycle while also using seawater in an open-loop cycle.

What is the primary advantage of Hybrid OTEC systems?

  1. Higher Efficiency

  2. Lower Cost

  3. Reduced Environmental Impact

  4. Increased Reliability


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Hybrid OTEC systems have higher efficiency compared to both Closed-Cycle and Open-Cycle OTEC systems due to the combination of the advantages of both systems.

Which factor is crucial for the successful operation of OTEC plants?

  1. Temperature Difference

  2. Ocean Depth

  3. Distance from the Shore

  4. Availability of Sunlight


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

A large temperature difference between the warm surface waters and the cold deep waters is essential for the efficient operation of OTEC plants.

What is the typical temperature difference required for OTEC plants to generate electricity?

  1. 5°C - 10°C

  2. 10°C - 15°C

  3. 15°C - 20°C

  4. 20°C - 25°C


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

A temperature difference of at least 20°C - 25°C is generally required for OTEC plants to generate electricity efficiently.

Which region is particularly suitable for OTEC plants due to its favorable temperature conditions?

  1. Arctic Circle

  2. Equatorial Regions

  3. Polar Regions

  4. Temperate Zones


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Equatorial regions are particularly suitable for OTEC plants due to the consistent high temperature difference between the warm surface waters and the cold deep waters.

What is the primary challenge associated with the construction of OTEC plants?

  1. High Cost

  2. Environmental Impact

  3. Technological Complexity

  4. Lack of Skilled Workforce


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The high cost of constructing OTEC plants, particularly the large-scale facilities required for commercial electricity generation, is a major challenge.

Which environmental concern is associated with OTEC plants?

  1. Greenhouse Gas Emissions

  2. Ocean Acidification

  3. Thermal Pollution

  4. Habitat Disruption


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

OTEC plants can potentially cause thermal pollution by releasing cold water back into the ocean, which may have ecological implications.

What is the primary technological challenge associated with OTEC plants?

  1. Material Corrosion

  2. Heat Exchanger Efficiency

  3. Turbine Design

  4. Working Fluid Selection


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Developing efficient heat exchangers that can withstand the harsh conditions of the ocean environment is a major technological challenge for OTEC plants.

Which working fluid is commonly used in Closed-Cycle OTEC systems?

  1. Seawater

  2. Ammonia

  3. Propane

  4. Butane


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Ammonia is a commonly used working fluid in Closed-Cycle OTEC systems due to its low boiling point and high efficiency.

What is the primary advantage of using seawater as the working fluid in Open-Cycle OTEC systems?

  1. Higher Efficiency

  2. Lower Cost

  3. Reduced Environmental Impact

  4. Increased Reliability


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Seawater is a readily available and inexpensive working fluid, making it advantageous for use in Open-Cycle OTEC systems.

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