Understanding Earth's Natural Resources

What defines a natural resource?

• A man-made product used for construction

• A part of Earth utilized by humans

• A synthetic material with unlimited availability

• A technology developed in the 21st century

Which of the following is a renewable resource?

• Oil

• Coal

• Natural Gas

• Sunlight

Which resource is considered non-renewable?

• Coal

• Sunlight

• Water

• Wind

Why are renewable resources important for future generations?

• They can be easily synthesized in a lab

• They are replaced by nature and won't run out

• They are more expensive and thus more valuable

• They require less technology to use

How are fossil fuels formed?

• Through the rapid decomposition of organic matter

• By a chemical reaction in the atmosphere

• By recycling plastic and other materials

• Under Earth's surface from organic matter over millions of years

What is a major use of fossil fuels?

• To create wind energy

• In combustion engines for transportation

• For purifying water

• As a main ingredient in pharmaceuticals

What environmental issue is caused by coal mining?

• Increased soil fertility

• Habitat loss

• Improved air quality

• Enhanced water retention in soil

How does burning fossil fuels affect the atmosphere?

• It decreases the amount of oxygen

• It reduces greenhouse gases

• It releases emissions harmful to organisms

• It creates a protective layer against solar radiation

What is the impact of drilling for natural gas and petroleum?

• It enhances the fertility of the soil

• It promotes the growth of forests

• It can lead to land and water pollution

• It increases air freshness

What is a direct consequence of habitat loss due to mining?

• Increased biodiversity

• Decrease in air pollution

• Migration of animals to new habitats

• Enhancement of natural landscapes