Question

Fossil fuels, such as coal and natural gas, consist of hydrocarbons that are derived from the remains of organisms. Many countries obtain most of their energy needs by burning fossil fuels. The combustion of fossil fuels produces heat, carbon dioxide, and water. Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming when present in excess in the atmosphere. Which of the following is a fact rather than an opinion about fossil fuels? (A) Fossil fuels should be banned because they are too dirty and expensive. (B) Many countries rely on fossil fuels as their major source of energy. (C) The United States should bury its fossil fuels so they don't contribute to global warming. (D) Fossil fuels are more economical than alternative sources of energy.

Short answer

(B) Many countries rely on fossil fuels as their major source of energy.

Step-by-step solution

Analyzing Statement (A)

Consider the statement: "Fossil fuels should be banned because they are too dirty and expensive." This statement suggests that fossil fuels should be eliminated for being dirty and costly. Since the statement contains the word "should" and the evaluation of something being "dirty" and "expensive" can vary between individuals, the statement is an opinion, not a fact.

Analyzing Statement (B)

Consider the statement: "Many countries rely on fossil fuels as their major source of energy." This statement is talking about the dependence of countries on fossil fuels for their energy needs. It is based on the observable trend that a significant number of countries utilize fossil fuels. This statement is a fact.

Analyzing Statement (C)

Consider the statement: "The United States should bury its fossil fuels, so they don't contribute to global warming." This statement recommends a course of action for the United States to prevent their fossil fuels from contributing to global warming. The use of the word "should" implies that this is an opinion, not a fact.

Analyzing Statement (D)

Consider the statement: "Fossil fuels are more economical than alternative sources of energy." This statement is comparing the cost-efficiency of fossil fuels to alternative energy sources. The determination of whether something is "more economical" can vary based on individual viewpoints, making this statement an opinion, not a fact.

Choosing the Correct Answer

After evaluating all the statements, we can conclude that statement (B): "Many countries rely on fossil fuels as their major source of energy" is the fact among the given options. All other statements are opinions based on personal beliefs or evaluations.

Key concepts

Greenhouse Gas

Gases that trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, like the glass panels of a greenhouse, are known as greenhouse gases (GHGs). The major GHGs include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). When fossil fuels are burned, CO2 is released into the atmosphere, a process contributing significantly to the total greenhouse gas emissions. Understanding the role of GHGs is crucial because they impact the temperature of our planet.