Fossil Fuel Energy Resources

The majority of the world's energy needs are met by burning carbon-rich fossil fuels. The three fossil fuel sources are oil, coal, and natural gas. Fossil fuels earn their name because they form over millions of years from the remains of ancient plants and animals. Fossil fuels are used to produce electricity, heat homes, manufacture gasoline, and process additional fuels. Fossil fuels are also used in the manufacturing of a large number of consumer and industrial products. The global economy is heavily influenced by fossil fuels. While burning fossil fuels produces a great deal of useful energy, it is the largest source of pollution worldwide and a major cause of global climate change. In this topic, you will learn how and where fossil fuels form, how they are harvested, processed, distributed, and used. In addition, you will explore the negative effects fossil fuels have on the environment.

Essential Questions

• What are fossil fuels?
• How is oil formed, harvested, and used for energy?
• How is natural gas formed, harvested, and used for energy?
• How is coal formed, harvested, and used for energy?
• What are the environmental effects of using fossil fuels?