Question

Which is an inexhaustible resource? A. coal B. nuclear C. oil D. solar

Short answer

D. solar

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Inexhaustible Resources

An inexhaustible resource is one that is abundant and not likely to run out over time. These resources are constantly replenished by natural processes and can be used repeatedly without the risk of depletion.

Analyzing Each Option

- **Coal**: A fossil fuel that is non-renewable and can be depleted over time. - **Nuclear**: Depends on finite resources like uranium, which can run out. - **Oil**: Another fossil fuel, like coal, that is non-renewable and exhaustible. - **Solar**: Energy from the sun, which is constantly being produced and will last for billions of years, making it essentially inexhaustible.

Conclusion

Among the given options (A) coal, (B) nuclear, (C) oil, and (D) solar, only solar energy fits the definition of an inexhaustible resource, as it is renewed naturally by the sun indefinitely.

Key concepts

Renewable Energy

Renewable energy is derived from natural processes that are replenished constantly. Unlike fossil fuels, renewable energy sources do not deplete over time. Instead, these resources offer a sustainable energy solution, which is one of their biggest advantages.

Some common types of renewable energy are:

• Solar energy
• Wind energy
• Hydroelectric energy
• Biomass energy
• Geothermal energy

Each of these types harness energy from different aspects of the Earth and sun, making them reliable sources for generating electricity and reducing carbon emissions. By focusing on renewable energy, societies aim to reduce their dependency on fossil fuels while combating climate change.

Fossil Fuels

Fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas are primary energy sources, but they are non-renewable. These fuels originated from ancient plant and animal matter that have decomposed over millions of years. The burning of fossil fuels releases energy, which is useful for generating electricity and powering vehicles but also emits greenhouse gases.

The main drawbacks of fossil fuels include:

• Limited availability, as they take millions of years to form
• Environmental pollution and greenhouse gas emissions
• Contribution to climate change due to carbon dioxide emissions

While fossil fuels have powered the industrialization era effectively, the risks they pose to our environment and their limited supply drive the need to seek alternative energy sources.

Solar Energy

Solar energy is harnessed from the sun’s rays and is the most abundant and inexhaustible form of energy available on Earth. This form of energy can be converted into electricity or heat using solar panels or other technologies. Solar energy is unique because it can be used for a broad range of applications from powering homes to large-scale solar farms.

Advantages of solar energy include:

• It is clean, producing no pollution or greenhouse gases during generation
• It is sustainable, with the sun's energy expected to last billions of years
• It reduces electricity bills and offers energy independence

By maximizing the potential of solar energy, we can transition towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy grid.

Natural Resources

Natural resources are materials or substances that exist naturally within the environment. These resources are categorized into two main groups: renewable and non-renewable. Renewable resources, such as solar and wind energy, are environmentally friendly and replenish naturally over time. Non-renewable resources, like fossil fuels, take millions of years to form and can be exhausted with overuse.

Key aspects of natural resources include:

• Vital for human survival, as they provide essentials like food, energy, and raw materials
• Often divided by their renewability—those that can be replenished versus those that are finite
• The need for sustainable management to ensure they are available for future generations

Effective use and management of these resources are critical for maintaining a balance between consumption and conservation.