Which of the following best describes non-renewable resources?

Non-renewable resources are best described as resources that are finite and cannot be replaced once they are used. This classification refers to resources such as fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas), certain minerals, and metals, which exist in limited quantities within the Earth's crust. Once these resources are extracted and consumed, they cannot be regenerated on a human timescale, making their availability depleteable and leading to potential scarcity.

The concept contrasts with renewable resources, which can naturally replenish over time, such as solar energy, wind, or timber. Understanding this distinction is crucial for resource management and sustainability practices, as reliance on non-renewable resources can lead to environmental degradation and economic challenges when they become scarce.