Q116. Which type of Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) system uses a heat exchanger to vaporize a working fluid?
a) Closed-cycle OTEC
b) Open-cycle OTEC
c) Hybrid OTEC
d) Deep-water OTEC
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Correct Answer: a) Closed-cycle OTEC
Explanation: Closed-cycle Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) systems use a working fluid such as ammonia, which is vaporized by warm surface water in a heat exchanger. The vapor drives a turbine to generate electricity before being condensed by cold deep water.
Q117. What is the main advantage of Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) compared to other renewable energy sources?
a) Predictability
b) Scalability
c) Affordability
d) Portability
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Correct Answer: a) Predictability
Explanation: Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) offers predictability in electricity generation since temperature differences between ocean layers are relatively stable and follow consistent patterns over time. This predictability makes OTEC a reliable and continuous source of renewable energy.
Q118. Which environmental impact is associated with the discharge of cold deep ocean water in Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) systems?
a) Habitat destruction
b) Thermal pollution
c) Air pollution
d) Soil erosion
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Correct Answer: b) Thermal pollution
Explanation: The discharge of cold deep ocean water in Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) systems can lead to thermal pollution, affecting marine ecosystems in the vicinity of the discharge area. Sudden temperature changes may disrupt local habitats and biological processes.
Q119. Which type of Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) system pumps warm surface water to heat a working fluid?
a) Closed-cycle OTEC
b) Open-cycle OTEC
c) Hybrid OTEC
d) Deep-water OTEC
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Correct Answer: b) Open-cycle OTEC
Explanation: Open-cycle Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) systems pump warm surface water directly to vaporize a working fluid, such as ammonia, in a low-pressure chamber. The resulting vapor drives a turbine to generate electricity before being condensed by cold deep water.
Q120. What is the term for the part of an Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) system that converts thermal energy into mechanical energy?
a) Heat exchanger
b) Turbine
c) Condenser
d) Compressor
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Correct Answer: b) Turbine
Explanation: In Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) systems, a turbine is the component that converts the mechanical energy generated by the expansion of a vaporized working fluid into rotational motion. This rotational motion drives a generator to produce electricity.