Two kinds of energy sources
We get energy from many sources. Some can be used again and again and never run out. Others will run out one day if we keep using them. We put energy sources into two groups.
Key idea
Renewable energy sources do not run out. Non-renewable energy sources will run out one day.
Renewable and non-renewable
Renewable sources are refilled by nature, so we can keep using them.
- Renewable: sunlight, wind, moving water, and plants (biomass).
- Non-renewable: coal, oil (petroleum) and natural gas. These are called fossil fuels.
Fossil fuels took millions of years to form, so once we use them up, they are gone. They can also make the air dirty when we burn them. Renewable sources are cleaner and better for the Earth, so many people are trying to use more of them.
Example
A solar panel uses sunlight, which is renewable. A car that burns petrol uses oil, which is non-renewable.
Remember
- Renewable: Sun, wind, water — never runs out.
- Non-renewable: coal, oil, natural gas — will run out.
- Save energy to protect the Earth.