3 Examples of Renewable Resources
1. Solar energy: Solar power involves harnessing energy from the sun through the use of solar panels or solar cells. These panels convert sunlight into electricity which can be used to power homes, businesses, and even vehicles. Solar energy is considered renewable because sunlight is constantly available and can be harnessed without depleting natural resources.
2. Wind energy: Wind power is generated by the movement of air through wind turbines, which are large structures with blades that rotate when the wind blows. As the blades turn, they generate electricity that can be used to power homes and businesses. Wind energy is renewable because wind is a natural and continuously available resource.
3. Biomass: Biomass refers to organic matter such as plants, crop residues, wood, and animal waste that can be used to produce energy. Biomass can be burned to generate heat and electricity or converted into biofuels like ethanol and biodiesel. Since biomass can be continuously grown and replenished, it is considered a renewable resource.
3 Examples on Non-Renewable Resources
1. Fossil Fuels: Fossil fuels are non-renewable resources that include coal, oil, and natural gas. These resources are formed from the decomposition of dead plants and animals over millions of years. They are extracted from the Earth and burned to produce energy. However, fossil fuel reserves are finite and take millions of years to form, making them non-renewable.
2. Nuclear Energy: Nuclear energy is generated by the process of nuclear fission, where the nucleus of an atom is split, releasing a tremendous amount of energy. This energy is used to generate electricity in nuclear power plants. However, nuclear fuel, such as uranium or plutonium, is a non-renewable resource as the extraction process requires mining and has a limited supply.
3. Natural Gas Liquids (NGLs): NGLs are hydrocarbons in the gaseous state at the reservoir, but become liquid when separated at surface pressure. These include ethane, propane, butane, and natural gasoline. While NGLs are often categorized as natural gas, they are considered non-renewable resources due to their limited availability and the need for extraction from natural gas reserves.