which of the following is a non-renewable resource?
Which of the following is a non-renewable resource?
Answer:
To determine which resources are non-renewable, it’s important to understand the definition of non-renewable resources. Non-renewable resources are resources that do not replenish quickly and can be exhausted over time due to human consumption. They are contrasted with renewable resources, which can naturally replenish within a human lifespan. Common examples of non-renewable resources include fossil fuels, minerals, and metals.
Common Non-Renewable Resources:
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Fossil Fuels:
- Coal: A sedimentary rock that is used primarily for electricity generation and steel production.
- Oil: A liquid fossil fuel used for transportation, heating, and as a raw material in chemical production.
- Natural Gas: Used for heating, electricity generation, and as an industrial feedstock.
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Nuclear Fuels:
- Uranium: Used in nuclear reactors to produce electricity through nuclear fission.
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Minerals and Metals:
- Metals like gold, silver, and platinum are finite and get depleted as they are extracted and used.
Final Answer:
Non-renewable resources include fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas), nuclear fuels (uranium), and certain minerals and metals. These resources are formed over millions of years and are finite in supply, making them non-renewable.