Question

Which of the following is a nonrenewable energy resource? A) water C) geothermal B) wind D) petroleum

Short answer

The nonrenewable energy resource is D) petroleum.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Concept of Renewable and Nonrenewable Resources

Renewable resources are those that can be replenished naturally and are considered sustainable over long periods. These include resources like sunlight, wind, and water, which are continuously available or naturally replenished at a rate faster than they are consumed.

Identify Renewable Resources in the Options

From the given options, let's identify which ones are renewable: - Water: It is part of the hydrological cycle and is continuously replenished. - Geothermal: Comes from the earth's internal heat, which is sustainable. - Wind: Generated by atmospheric processes and is renewable.

Recognize the Nonrenewable Resource

Nonrenewable resources are those that do not replenish on a human timescale or are irreplaceable once consumed. Petroleum, extracted from underground reserves, takes millions of years to form and is therefore considered nonrenewable.

Compare with Given Options

Evaluate the list of options against the definitions: - A) Water: Renewable - C) Geothermal: Renewable - B) Wind: Renewable - D) Petroleum: Nonrenewable

Select the Nonrenewable Resource

Based on the classification, the nonrenewable energy resource from the options is D) Petroleum.

Key concepts

renewable energy resources

Renewable energy resources are those that can be replenished naturally and can be used continuously without the risk of depletion. These resources are beneficial for the environment since they produce little to no pollution compared to fossil fuels. Additionally, renewable resources help in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and play a key role in sustainable development.

• Some common renewable energy sources include solar, wind, hydro (water), geothermal, and biomass.
• These resources tend to have a lower impact on the environment and are often more sustainable over long periods.
• The constant availability of these resources emphasizes their reliability and importance for a future transitioning away from fossil fuels.

Understanding renewable energy is crucial for making informed decisions about energy consumption and its impact on the planet.

petroleum energy

Petroleum energy is a common form of nonrenewable energy sourced from deep underground deposits. This fossil fuel is extracted in the form of crude oil and then refined into various products such as gasoline, diesel, and other petrochemicals. Because it takes millions of years to form, petroleum is considered nonrenewable.

• Petroleum is a major energy source globally, often used in transportation, heating, and electricity generation.
• Despite being a versatile and abundant energy resource, its extraction and consumption come with significant environmental costs, including pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
• The dependence on petroleum is a challenge as it contributes to climate change, prompting the search for cleaner and renewable alternatives.

As the world moves towards more sustainable practices, reducing reliance on petroleum is increasingly vital.

geothermal energy

Geothermal energy harnesses the natural heat from the Earth, primarily from rocks and fluids beneath the surface. This type of energy is considered renewable because the Earth continually produces heat due to its radioactive decay of minerals.

• Geothermal power plants utilize steam from reservoirs of hot water found below the Earth's surface to generate electricity.
• This energy is highly sustainable and available year-round, making it a reliable source of clean energy.
• Geothermal energy production does emit some gases, but significantly less compared to fossil fuels.

It offers an excellent option for countries located near tectonic plate boundaries where geothermal resources are more accessible. Advancements in technology continue to improve the efficiency of tapping into this natural energy source.

wind energy

Wind energy is one of the fastest-growing renewable energy technologies. It involves converting the kinetic energy of wind into electricity using wind turbines. Wind energy is highly sustainable and contributes significantly to reducing carbon emissions.

• Wind turbines are commonly installed on land (onshore) and in bodies of water (offshore), where wind speeds are consistent.
• The process of generating electricity through wind power produces no emissions, making it an environmentally friendly energy source.
• While it can be an intermittent energy source due to changing weather patterns, advances in energy storage are enhancing its reliability.

Wind energy's potential is vast, and it is an integral part of the transition towards a clean energy future. Investing in wind energy infrastructure can lead to economic growth and energy security.