Which scenario best illustrates a nonrenewable resource for power generation?

• A. Generating electric power by burning natural gas
• B. Generating electric power by allowing water to flow through a dam
• C. Converting wind energy to electric energy by using wind turbines
• D. Producing electric energy by harnessing light energy with solar panels

Answer: (A)

Nonrenewable resources are finite and cannot be replenished on human timescales. Natural gas is a fossil fuel formed over millions of years, so once we burn it to generate electricity, the usable supply decreases and isn’t quickly restored. The other options rely on energy sources that are continually replenished by natural processes: water for hydroelectric power comes from the renewable water cycle, wind is driven by solar heating of the atmosphere, and solar panels tap directly into sunlight. So the scenario that best illustrates a nonrenewable resource is generating electric power by burning natural gas.