Which is a nonrenewable resource?
A soil
B fish
C wood
D coal
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is D) coal.
Explanation
Nonrenewable resources are natural resources that cannot be replenished or regenerated at a sustainable rate once they are consumed. Coal is a fossil fuel formed from the remains of ancient plants and organisms that lived millions of years ago. The process of coal formation takes millions of years, involving the transformation of organic material through heat and pressure in the Earth’s crust. Once coal is mined and used, it cannot be replaced within a human timescale, making it a finite resource.
In contrast, the other options listed are renewable resources or can be regenerated more rapidly.
- A) Soil: Soil is considered a renewable resource. While its formation takes time due to processes such as weathering and organic matter accumulation, it can be replenished through sustainable agricultural practices and natural processes. However, soil can be depleted through erosion and poor management practices, which is why sustainable use is critical.
- B) Fish: Fish populations can be renewable if managed properly through sustainable fishing practices. Overfishing can lead to depletion, but with appropriate regulations and conservation efforts, fish populations can recover and maintain their numbers.
- C) Wood: Wood comes from trees, which are renewable resources. Forests can be sustainably managed through practices such as replanting and selective logging. As long as trees are harvested responsibly and new trees are planted, wood can be considered a renewable resource.
In summary, coal is a nonrenewable resource due to its long formation period and the inability to regenerate within a human lifetime. Its extraction and use have significant environmental impacts, including greenhouse gas emissions and habitat destruction, which further underscores the importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources.