Which of the following is a source of non-renewable energy?

Prepare for the AEST Natural Resource Specialist Certification Exam with interactive flashcards and multiple choice questions, each complete with hints and explanations. Ensure success on your certification journey!

Coal is a source of non-renewable energy because it is a fossil fuel that forms from the remains of ancient plants and animals buried beneath layers of sediment over millions of years. The extraction and combustion of coal release energy that has been stored in the earth for long periods. Once coal is mined and used for energy, it cannot be replaced on a human timescale, which distinguishes it from renewable energy sources.

In contrast, wind, solar, and biomass are considered renewable energy sources. Wind energy harnesses the power of moving air, which is naturally replenished. Solar energy captures sunlight, a constant and abundant resource. Biomass, while it involves organic materials that can be replenished, it is only renewable if managed sustainably. Therefore, these options do not fit the definition of non-renewable energy, making coal the correct choice.

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