which of the following is a nonrenewable energy resource?
Which of the following is a nonrenewable energy resource?
Answer: Nonrenewable energy resources are those that cannot be replenished or replaced in a short period of time. These resources take millions of years to form and will eventually run out if consumed faster than they are produced. Common examples of nonrenewable energy resources include fossil fuels, uranium, and certain minerals.
Examples of Nonrenewable Energy Resources
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Fossil Fuels:
- Coal: Formed from ancient plant matter buried millions of years ago.
- Oil: Extracted from reservoirs and commonly used for fuel and plastic production.
- Natural Gas: Used for heating, electricity, and fuel.
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Nuclear Energy:
- Uranium: Used as fuel in nuclear power plants. Although nuclear energy is low-carbon, uranium is finite and nonrenewable.
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Other Minerals:
- Metals like aluminum, copper, and gold that require extensive mining and are finite in nature.
Characteristics of Nonrenewable Energy Resources
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Formation Time | Millions of years |
| Replenishment Speed | Extremely slow (not replenished on human timescales) |
| Environmental Impact | Extraction and use cause pollution and environmental damage |
| Examples | Coal, oil, natural gas, uranium |
Why Are Nonrenewable Resources Problematic?
- Finite Supply: They cannot be replaced once used, leading to scarcity.
- Environmental Consequences: Burning fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases.
- Long-term Sustainability: Dependence on nonrenewable resources is unsustainable.
Comparison Table: Renewable vs. Nonrenewable Energy Resources
| Category | Nonrenewable | Renewable |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Cannot be replenished quickly | Naturally replenished in short periods |
| Examples | Coal, oil, uranium | Solar, wind, hydroelectric, geothermal |
| Environmental Impact | High pollution levels | Low or negligible pollution |
| Availability | Limited | Virtually unlimited |
Answer to the Question:
From the examples above, the nonrenewable energy resource in the options is likely to be coal, oil, natural gas, or uranium.
If you provide the list of options, I can confirm this answer for your question. Feel free to ask! 