Which of the following statements is/are correct in relation to ocean energy techniques?

1. Ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) technology uses the temperature difference between surface warmer water and deeper colder water encountered in oceans as the source of thermal energy.

2. The open cycle of OTEC can be configured to produce desalinated water as well as electricity.

3. The closed-cycle OTEC utilizes ocean water as a working fluid for power generation.

Explanation:

Ocean Energy Techniques

Ocean energy techniques utilize various mechanisms to harness the energy from oceanic processes. Among these techniques, Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) is a prominent technology that uses the thermal gradient between surface and deeper ocean waters. Let's examine the statements provided:

1. Statement 1: "Ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) technology uses the temperature difference between surface warmer water and deeper colder water encountered in oceans as the source of thermal energy." (Correct)

   • This statement correctly describes the basic principle of OTEC, which relies on the temperature gradient between warm surface water and cold deep water to generate energy.

2. Statement 2: "The open cycle of OTEC can be configured to produce desalinated water as well as electricity." (Correct)

   • In the open cycle OTEC process, warm seawater is evaporated under low pressure, and the steam produced drives a turbine to generate electricity. The steam is then condensed using cold seawater, resulting in desalinated water as a byproduct.

3. Statement 3: "The closed-cycle OTEC utilizes ocean water as a working fluid for power generation." (Incorrect)

   • In the closed-cycle OTEC, a working fluid with a low boiling point (such as ammonia) is used instead of ocean water. This fluid is vaporized by warm surface seawater, and the vapor drives a turbine to generate electricity. The vapor is then condensed using cold deep seawater and recirculated in the system.