Energy Sources and Industrial Sectors: A Comprehensive Look

Sources of Energy

Oil

Oil is a nonrenewable energy source derived from plankton fossils. Organic debris deposited in the sea, without air, has transformed into a hydrocarbon over time. Oil exploitation began in the nineteenth century, and it became the main source of energy. Refining is necessary for its use. The problems of oil include its significant impact on developed society and transportation by sea or pipeline. Oil-exporting countries have created an association (OPEC). Member countries include the USA, Canada, Mexico, Venezuela, Norway, Russia, China, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Iran.

Coal

Coal is found in fossil plants from ancient forests that were flooded. It was first employed after the Industrial Revolution (18th century). With the crisis of the 1970s, it was used again. Now, it is used for thermal power in countries like China, Russia, the USA, Australia, and South Africa.

Natural Gas

Natural Gas is a mixture of hydrocarbons. It may be associated with oil wells or isolated. Its use began in the twentieth century. It is used as household energy and in power stations in countries like the USA, Russia, Canada, and Algeria.

Nuclear Energy

Nuclear Energy comes from radioactive minerals through fission. Initially developed for military purposes, its primary use now is the production of electric power. It does not pollute the atmosphere. Countries using nuclear energy include the USA, Russia, Japan, France, and Germany.

Large Industrial Regions

• USA

  The largest industrial country in the world, with high technology and a skilled workforce. It has both traditional industries and new industrial areas around the Great Lakes.

• EU

  The most important industrial region, with all types of industries. Germany and the arc from Rotterdam to Milan are particularly significant.

• Japan

  The second-largest industrial country in the world, with a high-tech industry. The entire island is an industrial area.

• China

  Experiencing rapid progress in industrialization, particularly in textiles, footwear, and electronic equipment. Shanghai is a major industrial hub.

• Asian Dragons

  (Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan) - Known for their aggressive, imitation-based industries.

• South America

  Dependent on the USA, with Mexico and Brazil being notable examples.

• India and Argentina

  Rapidly industrializing in recent years.

Secondary Sector

At present, the offshoring of industry is one of the biggest sources of pollution.

Craft

Up to the eighteenth century, there were only crafts. Workshops were familiar, producing unique and expensive products.

Industry

Industry appeared with the Industrial Revolution. Factories and machines emerged, along with new energy sources. The division of labor and specialization were introduced with Taylorism.

Industry News

The industry today relies on technology. New forms of industry include communications, computers, microelectronics, and biotechnology to modify or create new products. The new industry has fewer workers, but they are highly skilled. In developed countries, traditional industries are being replaced by new industries.

Current Work

The market has been globalized, and companies have consolidated. Many companies are multinational or transnational. In recent years, the phenomenon of offshoring has been observed.

Role of the Consumer

Consumers are increasingly demanding, looking for more competitive products. Marketing, advertising, and R&D are of great importance, as is organizational effectiveness.

Industrial Location

Factors influencing industrial location include transportation, labor, proximity to consumption, political factors, proximity to other industries, industrial estates and business parks, land cost, and natural resources.

Types of Industry

• Heavy Industry

  Transforms raw materials or semi-processed products. Examples include:
  • Metallurgy: Obtaining iron and steel (also called heavy industry).
  • Chemical: Sulfuric acid, phosphates (also called basic industry).

• Equipment Industry

  Processes semi-finished products into machinery and products used by other industries. Examples include construction, transport equipment, and the wood industry.

• Light Industry

  Makes direct consumer goods, such as textiles and food.