Fig. 1 shows a cross-section through a glacier-fed valley in northern Pakistan. A hydroelectric dam has been proposed downstream of the glacier to provide r...
Question 1 Report
Fig. 1 shows a cross-section through a glacier-fed valley in northern Pakistan. A hydroelectric dam has been proposed downstream of the glacier to provide renewable energy for nearby cities. The reservoir would cover some farmland and require one mountain road to be moved. Engineers expect more meltwater in the short term as global temperatures rise, but they are uncertain about long-term river flow if the glacier becomes much smaller. Local people have asked for compensation and safer bridges across the new reservoir.
(a) Identify the store of frozen water in Fig. 1. [1]
(b) Describe one advantage of hydroelectric power compared with coal-fired electricity. [1]
(c) Explain two social or environmental costs of building the dam. [2]
(d) Explain one reason why glacier retreat may make future electricity generation less reliable. [2]
Answer Details
(a) The store of frozen water is the glacier. [1]
(b) Hydroelectric power is renewable and produces very little carbon dioxide during generation because no coal is burned. [1]
(c) Two social or environmental costs are:
- farmland is flooded by the reservoir, reducing land available for food production;
- people may be displaced if homes or settlements lie in the reservoir area.
Habitat loss and the need to replace roads or bridges are also valid. [2]
(d) A retreating glacier becomes smaller, so it stores less ice. Initially melting may increase flow, but eventually less meltwater reaches the reservoir. Less available water means turbines can generate less electricity, making future supply less reliable. [2]
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