Chapter 14: Problem 20

What is the difference between renewable and nonrenewable resources?

Short Answer

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The main difference between renewable and nonrenewable resources is their ability to replenish. Renewable resources, such as solar and wind energy, can regenerate and have a sustainable supply, whereas nonrenewable resources, like fossil fuels and minerals, have a limited supply and cannot be replaced. In general, renewable resources tend to have a lower environmental impact compared to nonrenewable resources, which can contribute to habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change. Examples of renewable resources include solar energy, wind energy, and hydroelectric power, while nonrenewable resources include oil, coal, and metals like gold and silver.

Step by step solution

Definition of Renewable Resources

Renewable resources are natural resources that can be replenished, or restored, over a relatively short period of time. These resources are often replaced by natural processes at a rate equal to or faster than their rate of consumption. Some common examples of renewable resources include sunlight, wind, and water.

Definition of Nonrenewable Resources

Nonrenewable resources are natural resources that cannot be replenished at a meaningful time scale. These resources have a finite supply, and once they are used up, they are gone forever. Common examples of nonrenewable resources include fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas, as well as minerals and metals like copper, gold, and silver.

Key Differences

The primary difference between renewable and nonrenewable resources lies in their ability to be replenished. Renewable resources can be regenerated and have a sustainable supply, while nonrenewable resources have a limited supply and cannot be replaced. This means that, in the long term, society will need to focus on using renewable resources to meet its needs, as nonrenewable resources will eventually be depleted.

Environmental Impact

Another difference between renewable and nonrenewable resources is their impact on the environment. In general, the extraction and use of nonrenewable resources tends to have a more significant negative impact on the environment, including habitat destruction, pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions related to climate change. On the other hand, renewable resources, such as solar and wind power, generally have a lower environmental impact when produced and used responsibly.

Examples of Renewable and Nonrenewable Resources

Here are some examples of each type of resource: Renewable resources: 1. Solar energy 2. Wind energy 3. Hydroelectric power 4. Geothermal energy 5. Biomass (e.g., wood, biofuel) Nonrenewable resources: 1. Oil (petroleum) 2. Natural gas 3. Coal 4. Uranium (nuclear energy) 5. Metals and minerals, like copper, gold, and silver

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What is the difference between renewable and nonrenewable resources?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Definition of Renewable Resources

Definition of Nonrenewable Resources

Key Differences

Environmental Impact

Examples of Renewable and Nonrenewable Resources

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