Chapter 5, Problem 12STP

Summary Introduction

To write:

A list of an example of a renewable resource and a non-renewable resource and analyze why they are classified as such.

Introduction:

The biosphere currently supplies the basic needs for over six billion humans in the form of natural resources. There are two types of natural resources- renewable resources and non-renewable resources.

Explanation of Solution

The examples of renewable sources are solar energy, plants, animals, water, air, etc.

The examples of non-renewable sources are coal, petroleum, limestone, gold, silver, uranium, etc.

The natural resources that are replaced by nature faster than they are consumed are known as renewable resources. Solar energy is considered a renewable resource because the supply appears to be endless. Agricultural plants, clean water, animals, and clean air are considered renewable because normally they are replaced faster than they are consumed by us. The resources that are found on the Earth in limited amounts or are placed by natural processes over very long periods of time are known as non-renewable resources. Fossil fuels and minerals are considered non-renewable resources.

Conclusion

Thus, the natural resources can be classified into renewable and non-renewable resources.