non-renewable energy
Definition
Non-renewable energy is energy that cannot be replenished in a human timescale. This means that once it is used up, it is gone forever. Some examples of non-renewable energy sources include:
- Fossil fuels: Fossil fuels are formed from the remains of dead plants and animals that have been buried underground for millions of years. They include coal, oil, and natural gas.
- Nuclear energy: Nuclear energy is produced by splitting atoms of uranium. This process releases a lot of energy, but it also produces radioactive waste.
- Geothermal energy: Geothermal energy is heat that comes from the Earth's interior. It can be used to generate electricity or to heat homes and businesses.
Non-renewable energy sources are important because they provide us with a lot of energy. However, they are also limited and can be harmful to the environment. For example, the burning of fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which contribute to climate change.
How can the word be used?
The word "non-renewable" is related to the words "renewable" and "energy.".
Different forms of the word
Noun: Energy that cannot be replenished in a short period of time.
Adjective: Relating to non-renewable energy.
Etymology
The word "non-renewable" is made up of the prefix "non-," which means "not," and the noun "renewable," which means "able to be replaced or renewed.".
The word "non-renewable energy" was first used in the early 20th century. It was used to describe energy sources that could not be replenished in a short period of time, such as fossil fuels.
Question
What is a non-renewable energy?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
What is non-renewable energy, and why is it considered unsustainable in the long run? Provide an example of a non-renewable energy source and discuss its environmental impact.
Answer:
Non-renewable energy refers to energy sources that are finite and cannot be naturally replenished on a human timescale. These sources are typically derived from fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, as well as nuclear fuels. Despite being major contributors to our energy consumption, non-renewable energy sources are considered unsustainable due to their limited availability and negative environmental impacts.
An example of a non-renewable energy source is coal. When burned to produce energy, coal releases significant amounts of carbon dioxide and other pollutants into the atmosphere. These emissions contribute to air pollution, global warming, and climate change, leading to adverse effects on ecosystems and human health. Additionally, coal mining can cause habitat destruction, soil degradation, and water pollution, further exacerbating environmental issues.
The finite nature of non-renewable energy sources is a significant concern. As these resources are depleted over time, the cost of extraction increases, and the environmental impact intensifies. Therefore, transitioning to renewable energy sources, like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, is essential for a sustainable and cleaner energy future. These alternatives harness naturally replenishing resources and produce minimal greenhouse gas emissions, mitigating the negative effects associated with non-renewable energy sources.