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Coal

Definition

Coal is a fossil fuel that formed over millions of years from plant remains. During the Industrial Revolution, coal became a crucial energy source used for powering steam engines, heating homes, and fueling industrial processes.

Analogy

Think of coal as the "powerhouse" behind the scenes. Just like how batteries give life to electronic devices, coal gave life (in terms of energy) to machines during this transformative era.

Related terms

Steam Engine: Steam engines were fueled by coal and played an essential role in driving machinery across various industries.

Mining: Mining involves extracting minerals or resources from beneath the Earth's surface. Coal mining became a major industry during this time due to its increasing demand.

Pollution: While coal contributed greatly to industrial growth, it also resulted in pollution due to emissions released when burning it as fuel.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.