Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Nonrenewable energy refers to energy sources that cannot be replenished or regenerated within a human lifespan. These are finite resources that will eventually run out if used at a faster rate than they can be naturally formed.
Fossil fuels are nonrenewable energy sources formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals buried deep within the Earth's crust.
Oil: Oil, also known as petroleum, is a fossil fuel that is extracted from underground reservoirs and refined into various products such as gasoline, diesel, and plastics.
Natural gas is another type of fossil fuel composed mainly of methane. It is often found alongside oil deposits and can be used for heating, cooking, and electricity generation.