Which of the following resources is considered non-renewable and forms...
Coal is a non-renewable resource formed over millions of years from ancient plant matter.
View all questions of this test
Which of the following resources is considered non-renewable and forms...
Understanding Non-Renewable Resources
Non-renewable resources are natural resources that cannot be replenished within a human timescale. Once depleted, they are gone for millions of years.
What is Coal?
- Coal is a fossil fuel formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals.
- Over millions of years, heat and pressure transformed these remains into the carbon-rich substance we know as coal.
Formation Process
- The process begins with the accumulation of plant matter in swampy areas.
- As layers of sediment build up, the plant material is buried and subjected to extreme heat and pressure.
- This transformation process is known as coalification, leading to different types of coal (anthracite, bituminous, sub-bituminous, and lignite).
Importance of Coal
- Coal is a major source of energy worldwide, used primarily for electricity generation and industrial processes.
- It is a significant contributor to carbon emissions, making it a topic of environmental concern in the context of climate change.
Comparison with Other Options
- Solar energy, freshwater, and wind energy are all renewable resources. They can be replenished naturally within a short timeframe.
- In contrast, coal, being a fossil fuel, takes millions of years to form, thus categorizing it as non-renewable.
Conclusion
Understanding that coal is a non-renewable resource formed from ancient organic matter highlights its importance and the need for sustainable energy alternatives.