Biomass
Definition
Biomass refers to any organic matter derived from plants or animals that can be used as an energy source. It includes materials such as wood chips, crop residues, animal manure, and even dedicated energy crops like switchgrass.
Analogy
Imagine biomass as a giant buffet table filled with different types of food. Just like how we can convert various dishes into energy by eating them, biomass can be converted into useful forms of energy through processes like combustion or fermentation.
Related terms
Biofuel: Biofuels are fuels produced from biomass sources. They can be used to power vehicles or generate electricity.
Carbon Neutral: Carbon neutral refers to activities or processes that do not result in net carbon emissions into the atmosphere. Using biomass for energy is considered carbon neutral because it releases only the same amount of carbon dioxide that was absorbed during plant growth.
Pyrolysis: Pyrolysis is a process that converts biomass into biochar, bio-oil, and syngas through the application of heat in the absence of oxygen.
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