Geenivirtaus

Geenivirtaus, also known as geothermal flow, refers to the natural flow of heat from the Earth's interior to its surface. This process is driven by the decay of radioactive elements within the Earth's crust and mantle, which generates a significant amount of heat. Geothermal energy harnesses this heat to produce electricity or for direct use in heating and cooling systems.

Geothermal resources can be classified into three main types: high-temperature, moderate-temperature, and low-temperature resources. High-temperature resources, typically found in volcanic areas, can reach temperatures exceeding 150°C and are suitable for electricity generation. Moderate-temperature resources, ranging from 90°C to 150°C, are often used for direct heating applications. Low-temperature resources, below 90°C, are typically used for ground-source heat pumps.

The most common methods of harnessing geothermal energy include geothermal power plants, which use steam or hot water to drive turbines, and ground-source heat pumps, which transfer heat between the ground and a building. Geothermal energy is a renewable and sustainable resource, with the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.

However, the development of geothermal resources can also have environmental impacts, such as the release of greenhouse gases and the potential for induced seismicity. Therefore, careful site selection and management are crucial to mitigate these risks and ensure the sustainable use of geothermal energy.