Quantitative Modeling of Biofuels Life Cycles

In this activity, students "compare the net energy and/or net greenhouse gases (GHG) emitted during the life cycle production of ethanol from switchgrass, diverse prairie and corn stover." Students will construct scenarios based on the data and business rules provided in the package from Microsoft Excel spreadsheets. The adaptable model allows for modifications depending on the class level and student interest. Targeted at high school through undergraduate students (grades 9 through 16), the activity requires a familiarity with basic forms or energy, energy transfer in biological and designed systems, carbon cycle, energy units, area units, alternative fuels and the role of greenhouse gas emissions in climate change. Five to six 50-minute class periods are needed to complete the activity, fewer if only energy scenarios are completed. Students need computers with spreadsheet software. The teacher instructions, student activities and worksheets, answer key and supplementary materials are all available in a downloadable .zip file.