Question

Which of the following is an example of a fossil fuel? A) wind C) natural gas B) water D) uranium-235

Short answer

Natural gas is an example of a fossil fuel.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Fossil Fuels

Fossil fuels are natural substances made from decomposed plants and animals buried under the Earth's surface for millions of years. They include coal, natural gas, and oil.

Analyze Each Option

Let's analyze the characteristics of each option: A) Wind is a renewable energy source, not a fossil fuel. B) Water, used in hydroelectric power, is also a renewable energy source. C) Natural gas is a fossil fuel formed from decomposed organic material. D) Uranium-235 is used in nuclear power, not classified as a fossil fuel.

Identify the Correct Answer

Based on the analysis, natural gas fits the definition of a fossil fuel as it's formed from ancient organic material buried for millions of years.

Key concepts

Natural Gas

Natural gas is a significant type of fossil fuel. It forms from layers of decomposed organic material buried beneath the earth's crust for millions of years. Over time, heat and pressure transform these remains into natural gas. This transformation occurs in conditions similar to where oil and coal develop.
Natural gas is primarily composed of methane, a simple hydrocarbon molecule consisting of one carbon atom and four hydrogen atoms. It also contains other gases such as ethane, propane, and butane in smaller amounts.
When compared to other fossil fuels like coal and oil, natural gas burns cleaner. It produces fewer pollutants and greenhouse gases. Thus, it is considered more environmentally friendly while still contributing to carbon emissions. Because of its abundance and cleaner-burning properties, natural gas often serves as a transitional energy source as the world shifts towards sustainable solutions.
Key points about natural gas include:

• It is used for electricity generation, residential heating, and as industrial energy.
• Infrastructure for its supply and distribution is well-developed in many regions of the world.
• Its efficient combustion process makes it attractive for combined heat and power systems.

Renewable Energy

Renewable energy comes from sources that are constantly replenished through natural processes. Unlike fossil fuels, renewable resources are inexhaustible on human timescales. Examples include solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal energy.
Wind energy, one of the options from the exercise, harnesses the power of air movement to turn blades connected to a generator. By converting kinetic energy into electricity, wind turbines contribute significantly to clean energy production without emitting harmful pollutants.
Hydropower, using the energy of flowing water, is another form of renewable energy. It historically accounts for substantial electricity generation worldwide. Dams and river flows are typical setups for this energy source, which provides flexible and reliable power output. However, large-scale hydropower projects can impact local ecosystems.
Solar power uses photovoltaic cells that directly convert sunlight into electricity. This method is clean, abundant, and increasingly affordable due to advancements in technology. The installation of solar panels is growing rapidly as countries aim to harness the sun's energy to fulfill energy requirements sustainably.
Important aspects of renewable energy include:

• Low environmental impact during operation.
• Reducing reliance on non-renewable resources.
• Potential to create energy security and independence.

Nuclear Energy

Nuclear energy is generated through nuclear reactions, usually fission. In this process, the nucleus of an atom splits into two or more smaller nuclei, releasing a significant amount of energy. Uranium-235, mentioned in the exercise, is a common fuel used in nuclear reactors.
The fission process occurs in a controlled environment inside a nuclear reactor, where the released heat is used to turn water into steam. This steam drives a turbine connected to a generator, producing electricity. Nuclear energy is known for its ability to provide a constant and reliable power supply without producing carbon emissions during operation.
However, there are concerns about nuclear waste disposal, the risk of accidents, and the high initial costs of plant construction. Despite these challenges, nuclear power remains an integral part of the global energy mix due to its efficiency and low greenhouse gas emissions.
Key points about nuclear energy include:

• It offers high energy density compared to fossil fuels and renewables.
• Significant research focuses on improving safety and waste management.
• Nuclear fusion, a potential future breakthrough, seeks to provide even cleaner energy.