Which one of the following is the non-renewable resource?
A) Sunlight
B) Oxygen
C) Water
D) Coal
Correct Answer is D) Coal
Explanation
Natural resources are the raw materials that are available on the earth, which are used by humans for their daily needs. These resources can be classified into two main categories, renewable and non-renewable resources. Renewable resources can be replenished naturally and over time, whereas non-renewable resources cannot. In this essay, we will discuss which one of the following is a non-renewable resource.
Fossil Fuels:
Fossil fuels are the most commonly used non-renewable resources. They are formed from the remains of dead plants and animals over millions of years. These fuels include coal, oil, and natural gas. They are used to generate electricity, power transportation, and heating buildings. Fossil fuels have been the primary source of energy for humans for centuries. However, they are finite and will eventually run out.
Coal:
Coal is a sedimentary rock that is formed from the remains of plants that lived millions of years ago. It is one of the most abundant fossil fuels on the planet and is primarily used to generate electricity. Coal is mined from underground or surface mines and is transported to power plants. The burning of coal releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which contributes to global warming and climate change.
Oil:
Oil is a liquid fossil fuel that is formed from the remains of tiny marine organisms that died millions of years ago. It is the most widely used fossil fuel and is primarily used for transportation, heating, and electricity generation. Oil is extracted from underground reserves or offshore oil rigs. The burning of oil also contributes to global warming and climate change.
Natural Gas:
Natural gas is a fossil fuel that is composed mainly of methane. It is formed from the remains of plants and animals that died millions of years ago. It is used for heating, cooking, and electricity generation. Natural gas is extracted from underground reserves or offshore natural gas rigs. The burning of natural gas produces less carbon dioxide than coal or oil, but it still contributes to global warming and climate change.
Non-renewable resources and their impact on the environment:
The use of non-renewable resources has a significant impact on the environment. The burning of fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which contributes to global warming and climate change. The extraction of fossil fuels also has a significant impact on the environment. The mining of coal, for example, can cause water pollution, soil erosion, and land degradation. The extraction of oil and gas can also result in environmental damage, including oil spills, habitat destruction, and water pollution.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, non-renewable resources are finite and will eventually run out. Fossil fuels, including coal, oil, and natural gas, are the most commonly used non-renewable resources. They are used to generate electricity, power transportation, and heat buildings. However, the use of non-renewable resources has a significant impact on the environment, including contributing to global warming and climate change. It is essential to explore alternative sources of energy, such as renewable resources, to reduce our dependence on non-renewable resources and minimize their impact on the environment.
FAQ:
Q: What is a non-renewable resource?
A: A non-renewable resource is a natural resource that cannot be replaced or replenished over time. Once it is used up, it is gone forever.
Q: What are some examples of non-renewable resources?
A: Examples of non-renewable resources include fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas, as well as minerals like copper, iron, and gold.
Q: Why are non-renewable resources important?
A: Non-renewable resources are important because they are used to generate energy, power transportation, and support industrial processes. They also have economic value and are used to produce a wide range of products.
Q: Which one of the following is the non-renewable resource?
A: The non-renewable resource is fossil fuels, including coal, oil, and natural gas.
Q: How long will non-renewable resources last?
A: The amount of time non-renewable resources will last depends on the rate at which they are being consumed and the rate at which they are being discovered. However, it is generally agreed that they will eventually run out.
Q: What are the environmental impacts of using non-renewable resources?
A: The use of non-renewable resources has a significant impact on the environment, including contributing to global warming and climate change, habitat destruction, air and water pollution, and land degradation.
Q: What are the alternatives to non-renewable resources?
A: Alternative sources of energy include renewable resources such as solar, wind, and hydropower. These resources are replenishable and have a lower impact on the environment compared to non-renewable resources. Other alternatives include energy efficiency and conservation measures.