Which energy type includes coal, oil, natural gas, and nuclear energy?

• A. Renewable Energy
• B. Nonrenewable Energy
• C. Biomass Energy
• D. Solar Energy

Answer: (B)

Nonrenewable energy refers to resources that are finite and cannot be replenished on a human timescale. Coal, oil, and natural gas are fossil fuels formed over millions of years; once we burn them, they’re not quickly replaced. Nuclear energy uses uranium (or other heavy elements), which is also finite and not replenished on a practical timescale. Because these sources can’t be replenished within a human lifetime, they’re categorized as nonrenewable. In contrast, renewable energy comes from sources that replenish naturally or can be sustained—like solar, wind, hydro, and biomass.