Atmospheric Dynamics, Energy Efficiency, and Aluminum Production
Atmospheric Dynamics
Horizontal atmospheric circulation, driven by surface winds, is called viento. Divergent and convergent winds form anticyclones and cyclones (anti borrascas). When highs and lows are near each other, surface wind blows from the high-pressure area to the low-pressure area. High-altitude winds flow in the opposite direction. Wind paths are not straight; terrain can amplify or create eddies. The Coriolis effect also influences wind trajectory.
The Coriolis Effect
The Coriolis force, explained by Gaspard-Gustave de Coriolis, results from Earth’s rotation (west to east). Its value is constant but maximal at the poles, decreasing to zero at the equator. Because the equator has a larger circumference, points there must rotate faster than points near the poles. This difference in speed causes deflection to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere. Winds moving radially from anticyclones or toward cyclones are deflected by the Coriolis force, resulting in clockwise rotation around highs and counterclockwise rotation around lows in the Northern Hemisphere (opposite in the Southern Hemisphere).
General Atmospheric Circulation
In equatorial regions, intense sunlight heats the surface vertically, causing hot air to rise and form equatorial storms. In polar regions, low temperatures cause cold air to sink, creating permanent polar anticyclones. Heat transport occurs through three types of cells: Hadley, Ferrel, and polar.
Efficient Energy Use and Cogeneration
Efficient energy use includes energy cogeneration, which combines the production of two useful forms of energy from a single source. This can achieve up to 90% efficiency. Specific measures include increasing electrical efficiency. Overall system efficiency is often around 33%. Power companies need to improve, but using ‘negawatts’ (financial support for consumers to buy more efficient products) is more profitable.
Real energy cost = price + (estimated annual energy cost * discount rate). Hidden energy costs include pollution in other areas. Consumption reduction is needed in various sectors.
Transportation, Home, Industry, and Personal Savings
Transportation accounts for 40% of energy use. Measures include public transportation, checking fuel consumption, using passive solar architecture, buying energy-efficient appliances (Class A), installing thermostats, and recycling.
Aluminum Production and Environmental Impact
Aluminum is an abundant metal in Earth’s crust. Commercial production began in 1886 and has increased since. It is lightweight, pliable, corrosion-resistant, and easily recyclable, making it useful in many products.
Production Process
- Bauxite is reduced with caustic soda to obtain sodium aluminate.
- Sodium aluminate is calcined with aluminum hydroxide to obtain alumina.
- Alumina undergoes continuous electrolysis with cryolite. Oxygen is deposited on the anode, and aluminum on the cathode.
Environmental Impacts
Main environmental impacts include deforestation and biodiversity loss. Social differences between the global north and south are exacerbated. Aluminum production requires significant energy consumption. Increased recycling and renewable energy sources are necessary.