Question
OCR J259/01 — 6-mark extended response
Compare the use of wind turbines and natural gas power stations for generating electricity. Include environmental and reliability considerations in your answer.
Mark scheme (Level of response):
Level 3 (5–6 marks): Detailed comparison covering both environmental impacts AND reliability for both sources, with a balanced conclusion.
Level 2 (3–4 marks): Comparison covers both sources but may be one-sided, or missing one key area (environmental OR reliability).
Level 1 (1–2 marks): Basic factual points with minimal comparison.
Indicative content:
Environmental:
- Wind turbines produce no CO₂ or other greenhouse gases during operation (B1).
- Natural gas burning releases CO₂, contributing to the greenhouse effect and climate change (B1).
- Gas also releases water vapour; extraction may cause local environmental damage (B1).
- Wind turbines have visual and noise impact; may affect birds (B1).
Reliability:
- Wind turbines are intermittent — only generate electricity when wind blows at suitable speed (B1).
- Natural gas stations are reliable and can be controlled to meet demand (dispatchable) (B1).
- Wind output is variable; cannot be "switched on" when needed; requires backup or storage (B1).
- Gas is a finite (non-renewable) resource that will eventually run out (B1).
Total: 6 marks.
6 marks · take your time before peeking.
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Generated by TopMyGrade AI · cross-check official sources before relying on the mark-scheme phrasing.