Wind Energy Wind energy is the greatest alternative energy at our disposal! It is easy to harvest wind energy, and the result of doing so creates beautiful fields of wind turbines that stand in magnificent contrast to the low fields of wheat, soy, and corn in the country.
Of course, there are many disadvantages to harnessing wind energy. Most obvious is the size of the windmills, also known as turbines. They are towering and can be taller than skyscrapers. Many people in rural areas, where turbines work best, worry that they are distracting and dangerous at such heights. People also fear the health effects of turbines, because they can be quite loud. While studies have found no significant impact to human health due to turbines, many wonder what the noise may do to people’s hearing.
The worst impact is on the habitat. The noise can chase off animals that benefit crops and are vital parts of the rural ecosystem. The rotating blades, which function like windmills, can spin quickly and cause injury to birds and bats. Despite the technology that continues to better these turbines, the noise and size are drawbacks to the energy alternative. It is not always worth it to have turbines to gather and dispense wind energy.
However, the drawbacks of wind turbines and wind energy continue to be minimal. The injuries caused by wind turbine blades are less than those caused by skyscrapers, cars, and planes. Though the noise can be intolerable to some, most wind farms are built far enough away from homes and businesses that they cannot be heard above a subtle hum that often sounds like the wind on a breezy day.
Despite the negatives, the wind energy industry is growing by leaps and bounds every year! Despite its many drawbacks and negatives, countries such as Germany and Spain are leading the way. The United States isn’t far behind. Once the industry begins creating jobs to match the pace of energy demands, the United States will lead the way.

Select ALL the correct answers.
In which two phrases from the passage does the author create a tone of nervousness in paragraph 2?
A.)many disadvantages to harnessing wind energy
B.)fear the health effects of turbines, because they can be quite loud
C.)they can be quite loud
D.)many wonder what the noise may do
E.)chase off animals that benefit crops and are vital parts of the rural ecosystem