Question

Which among the following is not a renewable source of energy?
A. Solar
B. Geothermal
C. Hydropower
D. Biomass

Answer 1

Hint: Renewable resources of energy are those which are replenished naturally while non-renewable resources are those which are limited and may become extinct if used without care. Renewable resources are those which are available to use at such a large amount and/or are replenished regularly.

Complete step-by-step solution:
Let us first understand what is meant by renewable and non-renewable sources of energy.
Renewable resources of energy are those which are replenished naturally while non-renewable resources are those which are limited and may become extinct if used without care.
Classifying the sources as such gives us an insight into the limitations in using certain resources, which are available to us in short supply.
Coal, petroleum, natural gas, etc. are some of the resources of energy, which do not get replenished as frequently as they are consumed, and hence their use has to be regulated and limited and is classified under non-renewable resources.
Renewable resources are those which are available to use at such a large amount and/or are replenished regularly. Examples of renewable sources are solar energy, tidal energy, geothermal energy, wind energy, etc.
Solar energy is the energy that is received from the sun. We know that the energy from the sun is always available. Hence, it is a renewable source of energy.
Geothermal energy is the energy received from the inside of the earth. Even this energy is always available. Hence, geothermal energy is renewable energy.
Hydropower energy is the energy obtained due to water. Since water is renewed through the water cycle, hydropower is a renewable source of energy.
Therefore, biomass is a non-renewable source of energy.
Hence, the correct option is D.

Note: As mentioned before, not all sources of energy are sustainable and available to us infinitely. And hence, their usage has to be regulated if they are to be conserved for future generations and alternate sources have to be discovered. The said method of classification gives us a statistical and geographical idea regarding their availability and sustainability. Hence, the usage of resources, which are under the danger of possible extinction can be limited. More knowledge and information regarding alternate sources can be acquired and this further aids in locating renewable sources and harnessing them.