Generating Methane from Waste

Lesson Overview

Upon completing this lesson, the students will:

• Learn how methane digesters turn waste into usable gases and other fuels;

• Understand the energy-producing potential of some solid wastes; and

• Examine some systems of generating methane from waste.

Duration

Multiple days

Lesson Type

Traditional Lesson

Essential Question

1. How does methane gas affect the environment? (Increased methane in the atmosphere contributes to the greenhouse effect that leads to global warming.)

2. What kinds of waste can be converted into usable energy? (e.g., food scraps, manure, crops, wood)

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Other Instructional Materials or Notes:

9, 10, 11, 12

Science

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Standards

Ecosystem Dynamics
- H.B.6 The student will demonstrate an understanding that ecosystems are complex, interactive systems that include both biological communities and physical components of the environment.
  - H.B.6B Photosynthesis and cellular respiration are important components of the carbon cycle, in which carbon is exchanged between the biosphere, atmosphere, oceans, and geosphere through chemical, physical, geological, and biological processes.
    - H.B.6B.2 Analyze and interpret quantitative data to construct an explanation for the effects of greenhouse gases (such as carbon dioxide and methane) on the carbon cycle and global climate.

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Lesson Partners: The South Carolina Energy Office