Fossil Fuels Examples

Fossil fuels are currently used as the primary energy source for the world. They are formed over millions of years from organic materials in the Earth. Fossil fuels are considered to be non-renewable resources that were formed or created when prehistoric plants and animals died and were gradually buried by layers of rock.

It is a non-renewable resource because it comes from carbon-based organic matter that is difficult to replace or takes a long period of time to replace. On the other hand, a renewable resource is not carbon-based and can be constantly replenished, such as water, wind, and the Sun.

Different types of fossil fuels are formed depending on the combination of organic matter that was present, the length of time it was buried, the temperature during the span of time, and the pressure that existed on the material as time passed. All of these conditions together will result in the production of a fossil fuel.

Fossil fuel is drilled or mined today for use of energy resources. They are used to produce electricity, use as fuel for heating and transportation, and for many other uses in manufacturing and industry. When fossil fuels are burned and used the emissions from them often cause harm to the environment. They produce greenhouse gases, which may cause harm to the ozone layer.

1. Coal: It is the primary fuel for the production of electricity and is responsible for about 40% of the electric power supply in the United States. The U.S. also produces or mines about 12% of the coal used with China leading in coal production at about 45%. The burning of coal and the mining process is harmful to the environment releasing air pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and mercury.

2. Oil: Oil is the primary source for the world's transportation. Most oil is pumped out of underground reservoirs but may also be found in shale and tar sands. The crude oil is then refined to create the fuel such as heating oil, gasoline, petroleum gas, pesticides, fertilizers, plastics, and more.

3. Natural Gas: About 27% of U.S. energy is fueled by natural gas. It is commonly used to produce heat or electricity for buildings and industrial processes. Very little, about 2%, is used for transportation. Natural gas may also be used for fertilizer, paint, and plastic production.

4.Petroleum: This is a liquid fuel made of hydrogen and other liquid organic compounds.

5.Liquefied Petroleum Gas: Heavier than natural gas, but it is in liquid form and can be easily transported and stored.