Fossil Fuels

Definition

Fossil fuels are energy-rich substances formed from ancient organic matter buried deep within the Earth's crust. They include coal, oil, and natural gas. Fossil fuels are burned to release energy but also release carbon dioxide and other pollutants into the atmosphere.

Related terms

Renewable Energy: Energy sources that can be replenished naturally within a human lifespan, such as solar, wind, hydroelectric power.

Combustion:

The process of burning a fuel in the presence of oxygen to release heat energy.

Air Pollution:

The presence of harmful substances in the air due to human activities or natural processes, often caused by burning fossil fuels.