Chapter 4, Problem 1SA

Summary Introduction

To analyze:

Why fossil fuels are considered non-renewable sources of energy.

Introduction:

Fossil fuels are hydrocarbons that have formed from plant and animal remains over millions of years.

Explanation of Solution

Fossil fuels have formed from the remains of plankton, plants and animals that died millions of years ago. These organisms have slowly decomposed and remained under heat and pressure, underground, for millions of years. Since the time required for formation of fossil fuels is so long, they are considered non-renewable. The fossil fuels we use today will not be replenished for many millions of years, maybe even until humans go extinct.

Conclusion

Fossil fuels take millions of years to form from the remains of organisms. The fossil fuels we use today is not likely to be replenished for many millions of years to come. This is why they are called non-renewable fuels.