Global Energy Sources and Industrial Powers

Oil and Natural Gas

Oil and natural gas are non-renewable fossil fuels formed by decomposition. This process has not stopped. Deposits of natural gas and oil are often found in the same place.

The biggest oil reserves are in the Persian Gulf, Venezuela, and Canada. Gas reserves are more diversified. Demand for oil has tripled in the last fifty years. The United States is the biggest consumer, followed by China and Japan. The consumption of natural gas has increased since the oil crisis of 1973.

Environmental Damage

This is mainly linked to oil, which causes atmospheric pollution and oil spills.

Dependence

On the energy-producing countries. This makes industrial countries vulnerable to sudden price increases.

Coal

Coal is a fossil fuel formed by the decomposing remains of vegetation in shallow water. Coal is used to produce electricity. It can also be converted into liquid or gaseous fuel. The main deposits are in China, the Russian Federation, and North America. It causes major environmental problems.

Uranium

Uranium energy originates from a process called fission. Uranium needs a process of enrichment before it can be used. The main producers are developed countries such as the United States, France, and Japan, which have been joined by China and India.

Major Industrial Powers

China

China has become the world's leading industrial power. Its growth has been based on changes in economic policy and abundant resources.

The following are China's main industries: electronics, basic industries, and consumer goods.

Japan

Japan is the world's third-largest industrial power. A strong work ethic, aggressive business policies, and advanced technological development have all contributed to its success.

India

India has been expanding rapidly since the 1990s. Textiles are the country's most important industry. India is also one of the world's main steel producers.

Renewable Energies

There are two major advantages to renewable energy sources:

• These energies are available everywhere. Fossil fuels are only found in certain regions.
• They have little impact on the environment.

They also have some drawbacks:

• Supply is irregular.
• The energy produced is difficult to store.

Types of Industrial Goods

Basic

Iron and steel, metalworking, petrochemical, cement

Capital Goods

Machinery and engines, equipment and material for transport, building materials

Consumer Goods

Food, textiles, cars, electronic goods, light chemicals, furniture