Distribution of Natural Energy Resources (College Board AP® Environmental Science): Exam Questions

7 mins7 questions
11 mark

Why is the geographic distribution of fossil fuels a source of global political tension?

  • Fossil fuels are evenly distributed and fairly traded

  • Many countries are entirely energy self-sufficient

  • Some regions control large reserves, creating energy dependencies

  • All fossil fuels can be extracted from any part of the world

21 mark

Which of the following best explains why some countries rely heavily on imported energy?

  • They have low population densities

  • They lack sufficient domestic energy reserves

  • Importing energy reduces greenhouse gas emissions

  • International law requires equal energy distribution

31 mark

Which of the following natural energy resources is most evenly distributed globally?

  • Natural gas

  • Coal

  • Wind energy

  • Petroleum

41 mark

Which region is especially known for large petroleum reserves?

  • Sub-Saharan Africa

  • Western Europe

  • The Middle East

  • Southeast Asia

51 mark

Which of the following factors has the greatest influence on where fossil fuel resources are located?

  • Past geologic conditions and biological activity

  • Local climate

  • Proximity to surface water

  • Latitude and longitude

61 mark

Countries rich in fossil fuel reserves may experience all of the following except:

  • Export revenue and economic growth

  • Political leverage over energy-poor nations

  • Decreased interest in renewable development

  • Complete immunity from energy-related environmental impacts

71 mark

Which of the following locations has the greatest proven coal reserves? 

  • Ecuador

  • Portugal

  • United States 

  • New Zealand