New
New
Distribution of oil reserves, factors affecting growth of oil consumption
I can explain how oil reserves and production are unevenly distributed and that oil consumption is increasing.
Lesson 5 of 12
New
New
- Year 11
- Edexcel B
Distribution of oil reserves, factors affecting growth of oil consumption
I can explain how oil reserves and production are unevenly distributed and that oil consumption is increasing.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The global demand for oil is increasing.
- Oil reserves and production are unevenly distributed.
- Oil consumption is growing due to rising per capita GDP and rapid industrialisation in emerging countries.
Keywords
Oil reserves - locations where oil is found in significant amounts
Industrialisation - the process by which an economy is transformed from primarily agricultural to one based on manufacturing and industry
Emerging countries - nations with social or business activities in the process of rapid growth and industrialisation
Common misconception
All countries consume oil at the same rate.
Oil consumption varies based on industrialisation, population size, and economic factors.
Interestingly, as development increases, countries use more energy and oil. That is, until the country reaches a high level of development whereby oil consumption falls off. Students could explore reasons for this (e.g. energy efficiency, vehicle electrification, rise of renewable energy).
Teacher tip
Equipment
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
Loading...
Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the keywords to their correct definitions:
Match the keywords to their correct definitions:
Q2.Which of these is an example of a renewable energy source?
Which of these is an example of a renewable energy source?
Coal
Natural gas
Oil
Q3.What is the main reason energy consumption is higher in high-income countries?
What is the main reason energy consumption is higher in high-income countries?
They have more forests
People drive less
They use candles for lighting
Q4.Which of these is a non-renewable energy source?
Which of these is a non-renewable energy source?
Solar
Biomass
Tidal
Q5.Countries aim for energy to ensure a reliable and affordable supply.
Countries aim for energy to ensure a reliable and affordable supply.
Q6.Why is it important for countries to use a mix of energy sources?
Why is it important for countries to use a mix of energy sources?
To confuse consumers
To make energy more expensive
To use as much oil as possible
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Match the keywords to their definitions:
Match the keywords to their definitions:
Q2.Which region has the largest proven oil reserves?
Which region has the largest proven oil reserves?
North America
South America
Europe
Q3.What is the main reason oil consumption is rising in emerging countries?
What is the main reason oil consumption is rising in emerging countries?
More desert areas
More public transport
Use of wind power
Q4.Why might oil consumption not grow in some countries despite population growth?
Why might oil consumption not grow in some countries despite population growth?
More sunlight
Use of wood
Fewer cows
