Supply chain challenges (lithium, cobalt) in EV Technology - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What are the main uses of lithium and cobalt in electric vehicles?

Lithium and cobalt are key materials used in the batteries of electric vehicles. Lithium is used for energy storage, while cobalt helps improve battery stability and lifespan.

intermediate

Why is cobalt considered a supply chain challenge?

Cobalt supply is challenging because most of it comes from a few countries, like the Democratic Republic of Congo, where mining conditions can be unsafe and unethical. This creates risks for supply reliability and ethical sourcing.

intermediate

How does lithium mining impact the environment?

Lithium mining can use a lot of water and may harm local ecosystems. Extracting lithium from salt flats can reduce water availability for nearby communities and wildlife.

intermediate

What strategies are companies using to address lithium and cobalt supply challenges?

Companies are investing in recycling batteries, finding alternative materials, and improving mining practices to reduce environmental and ethical issues.

beginner

How does the demand for electric vehicles affect lithium and cobalt supply chains?

Growing demand for electric vehicles increases the need for lithium and cobalt, putting pressure on mining operations and supply chains to keep up while managing environmental and ethical concerns.

Which country is the largest producer of cobalt?

A Democratic Republic of Congo

B Australia

C Chile

D Canada

The Democratic Republic of Congo produces about 70% of the world's cobalt, making it the largest producer.

What is a major environmental concern related to lithium mining?

A Noise pollution

B Water depletion

C Deforestation

D Air pollution

Lithium mining, especially from salt flats, uses large amounts of water, which can deplete local water resources.

Why is cobalt supply considered ethically challenging?

A Because it is mined mostly in countries with poor labor conditions

B Because it is very expensive

C Because it is found only in deep ocean mines

D Because it is radioactive

Cobalt mining in places like the Democratic Republic of Congo often involves unsafe working conditions and child labor concerns.

Which of these is NOT a strategy to improve lithium and cobalt supply chains?

A Battery recycling

B Using alternative materials

C Increasing fossil fuel use

D Improving mining practices

Increasing fossil fuel use does not help improve lithium and cobalt supply chains; it is unrelated and counterproductive.

What effect does rising electric vehicle demand have on lithium and cobalt?

A Eliminates the need for these metals

B Decreases mining activities

C Reduces battery production

D Increases pressure on supply chains

More electric vehicles mean more batteries, which increases demand and pressure on lithium and cobalt supply chains.

Explain the main supply chain challenges related to lithium and cobalt used in electric vehicle batteries.

Think about where these metals come from and what problems arise from mining and demand.

Describe strategies companies use to address lithium and cobalt supply chain issues.

Consider how companies can reduce risks and improve sustainability.