What is a nonrenewable resource?(1 point)
Responses
a resource that is in limited supply
a resource that is in limited supply
a resource that harms the environment when it is used
a resource that harms the environment when it is used
a resource that is in limited supply
A nonrenewable resource is a resource that is in limited supply.
The correct answer is: a resource that is in limited supply.
To arrive at this answer, we can break down the options and identify the most suitable explanation.
Option 1 states that a nonrenewable resource is a resource that is in limited supply. This aligns with the generally accepted definition of nonrenewable resources. Nonrenewable resources are resources that cannot be replenished or regenerated in a short amount of time. Examples include fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas. These resources take millions of years to form, making their supply finite and limited.
Option 2 states that a nonrenewable resource is a resource that harms the environment when it is used. While it is true that the extraction and usage of nonrenewable resources often have negative environmental impacts, this factor alone does not define a nonrenewable resource. Renewable resources, such as wind and solar energy, can also have harmful environmental effects depending on how they are utilized. Therefore, this option does not accurately capture the concept of a nonrenewable resource.