Question

How have the fuels to power homes, industry, and transportation changed from the beginning of the Industrial Revolution to the present?

Short answer

From the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, the primary fuel used was coal. However, by the late 19th and early 20th centuries, there was a shift towards oil and natural gas for efficiency and ease of transport. In the present day, fossil fuels are still commonly used, but there's also a significant move towards renewable energy sources due to concerns over emissions and sustainability.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the time period of the Industrial Revolution.

The Industrial Revolution broadly occurred from the mid-18th to early 19th century, primarily in Britain.

Identify the fuels used during the Industrial Revolution.

During the Industrial Revolution, coal was the primary source of energy. It was used for heating homes, powering machines in factories, and eventually, steam engines for boats and trains.

Highlight the transition

Transition started to happen from coal to oil and gas in the late 19th and early 20th century, as these forms of energy were cleaner, more efficient, and easier to transport.

Identify the current fuels for energy

In the present day, while fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) are still widely used, there's also a significant shift towards renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower for electricity generation, dependent on geographical location and resources. For transportation, besides petroleum-based fuels, electric and hybrid vehicles are becoming more popular.

Discuss the reasons for the changes

Reasons for changes in the types of fuels used include technological advancements (both in fuel extraction and utilization), relative abundance or scarcity of the fuels, environmental concerns related to emissions, and global policy moving towards more sustainable energy sources.