Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 338

Contribution coal based power plants in CO2 emission

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the primary source of CO2 emissions from the power sector.

Correct Answer: B) 58%

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railways

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

Coal-based power plants are a major contributor to CO2 emissions due to the combustion of coal, which is a carbon-intensive fuel. When coal is burned to generate electricity, it releases large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. This process is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to global warming and climate change.

The contribution of coal-based power plants to CO2 emissions is substantial because coal is one of the most widely used fuels for electricity generation worldwide. According to various studies and reports, coal-based power plants contribute approximately 58% to global CO2 emissions from the power sector. This high percentage reflects the extensive use of coal in power generation and its high carbon content.

It is important to understand the environmental impact of different energy sources to develop sustainable energy policies and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. While coal-based power plants are a significant contributor to CO2 emissions, other sources such as natural gas, nuclear power, and renewable energy sources like solar and wind power have lower or no CO2 emissions. Transitioning to cleaner energy sources is crucial for mitigating the environmental impact of power generation.

The percentage contribution of coal-based power plants to CO2 emissions is a key factor in assessing the environmental impact of the power sector. This information is essential for policymakers, environmental scientists, and energy experts to develop strategies for reducing CO2 emissions and promoting sustainable energy practices. Understanding the role of coal-based power plants in CO2 emissions helps in making informed decisions about energy sources and their environmental impact.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is incorrect. Coal-based power plants contribute significantly more than 10% to CO2 emissions. The low percentage might be a result of confusion with other less significant sources of CO2 emissions.
  • Option B: This option is correct. Coal-based power plants are a major contributor to CO2 emissions, with a significant percentage of around 58%. This high percentage reflects the extensive use of coal in power generation and its high carbon content.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. While coal-based power plants do contribute a substantial amount to CO2 emissions, 34% is an underestimation of their actual contribution. This might be due to a misunderstanding of the scale of coal usage in power generation.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. Although coal-based power plants are a significant source of CO2 emissions, 88% is an overestimation. This high percentage might be a result of confusion with the total emissions from all sources or an exaggeration of the role of coal in power generation.

Mnemonic: C-CO2: Coal contributes significantly to CO2

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