Geothermal Energy: A General Overview with Specific Reference to the Long Valley Caldera :: Energy Geothermal Papers

geothermic Energy A General Overview with Specific Reference to the Long Valley Caldera IntroductionGeothermal zero is a process that uses heated ground weewee to turn turbines that produce electricity. The wet is warmed by the realitys natural heat. Geothermal vigour was first positive by Count Lardarel of Lardarello, Tus jakesy in 1827 (Geothermal.marin). Since then many other countries go through developed geothermal technology, yet it is a resource that remains broadly untapped. As the need to find alternative fuel sources grows, geothermal vitality becomes an interesting option for potential future energy performance.Geothermal energy intersection involves a complex set of issues. First it is important to role geothermal energy in context of todays energy needs. Currently, one of the ongoing dilemmas of energy use is the worldwide allocation of resources and general rate of consumption. at heart this essay, I will illustrate a brief history of energy use and deve lopment. Geothermal energy can only be produced in particular geological settings. Only areas with recent volcanic activity can produce the heat needed for geothermal production. Therefore, a basic taking into custody of tectonic plate movement and volcanology is required to understand the production of geothermal energy. I intend to give a general scope on the geological settings necessary for the production of geothermal energy production. Lastly, I will center on one region in particular, that is to say the Long Valley Caldera in California. This is an area that is saturated with historical and fall in volcanic activity. The recent volcanic activity makes it an area that is perfect for geothermal energy production. I will discuss in particular the large Pacific plant that operates in Mammoth Lakes. What is Geothermal Energy?The production of geothermal energy is a way of utilizing heat that is created by volcanic activity to produce electricity. Within a geothe rmal system, ground water supply is heated by magma chambers to temperatures as high as 450 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the temperature of the water depends on the geothermal gradient. A gradient signifies how deep below the excavate the heated water is. The deeper down the water is in the earth, the hotter it will be (this is called a steep geothermal gradient). The water either reaches the surface of the earth naturally in the form of geysers, fumaroles, or hot springs or it moldiness be drilled.