Question

Which of the following is the non-renewable source of energy?
A) Coal
B) Solar energy
C) Plants
D) Biomass

Answer 1

Hint: First let us learn about the different types of energies and their classification basis. In general, energy is defined as the power derived from the utilization of physical or chemical resources, especially to provide light and heat or to perform work.

Complete step by step answer:

Generally, the simple definition of work is the capacity or power to do work. Energy can exist in various forms, such as electrical, mechanical, chemical, thermal, or nuclear energy. Energy can neither be created nor be destroyed but can be converted from one form to another. Now, since we are clear with the definition of energy let us proceed to its classification based on renewability. There are two types of energy: renewable and non-renewable.Renewable energy is energy that comes from renewable resources, which are naturally replenished like sunlight, wind, rain, waves, tides, heat produced by earth. We can observe that all these sources can never come to an end even if their usage is increased to further levels. Non renewable energy is just the opposite of renewable energy. It is collected from non-renewable sources of energy and once the sources are completely used, they cannot be reused. This means, non-renewable energy sources are limited. Most non-renewable sources are fossil fuels: coal, petroleum and natural gas. Hence, the non renewable source of energy is A.Coal.

Note: Now, we will approach this question through options. Coal is one of the primary fossil fuels. Fossil fuels are considered non-renewable because they are finite resources being used faster than they can be replenished. Solar energy comes from the sunlight which is definitely a renewable resource. Plants cannot be a non-renewable source as new plants can be grown until there is sunlight, water which are renewable sources. Biomass is nothing but a plant or animal material used for energy production, or in various industrial processes as raw substance for a range of products. It is clear that this is also a renewable source. Thus, the correct answer is option A. Coal.