Question

Which energy source is considered non-renewable?

• A. Solar energy
• B. Wind energy
• C. Nuclear energy
• D. Bio-energy

Hint:

Logic Tip: Ask yourself: "Can I grow more of it, or wait for the sun/wind to bring me more?" If the answer is no (you have to dig it out of the ground until the hole is empty), it is non-renewable.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept:
Energy sources are broadly classified into two categories based on how quickly nature can replenish them relative to human consumption rates.

Step 1: A resource is renewable if it is naturally replenished on a human timescale.

Step 2: * Solar (A) is constantly provided by the sun. * Wind (B) is continuously generated by atmospheric temperature differences. * Bio-energy (D) relies on growing plants/biomass, which can be continuously replanted and harvested.

Step 3: A resource is non-renewable if it exists in a fixed, finite amount within the Earth and takes millions of years to form (or is created in supernovae). Once we mine it and use it, it is gone forever.

Step 4: Nuclear power requires Uranium (or Thorium) ore. This is a heavy metal that must be physically mined from finite deposits in the Earth's crust.

Step 5: Because there is a limited, non-replenishing supply of Uranium on the planet, Nuclear energy is classified as a non-renewable resource, alongside fossil fuels.