Which of the following is a non-renewable source of energy?
coal
Explanation of incorrect options:
(A) Wind is a renewable energy source. Overall, using wind to produce energy has fewer effects on the environment than many other energy sources. Wind turbines do not release emissions that can pollute the air or water (with rare exceptions), and they do not require water for cooling.
(B) Compared to other resources that are used to produce energy and power, water is considered renewable as well as having the least solid waste during energy production.
(C) Solar energy is radiant light and heat from the Sun and can be harnessed using a range of technologies such as solar heating, solar photovoltaic, and solar thermal electricity. Solar energy is a renewable source of energy that is sustainable and totally inexhaustible, unlike fossil fuels which are finite.
Explanation of correct options:
(D) Coal is classified as a nonrenewable energy source because it takes millions of years to form. Coal contains the energy stored by plants that lived hundreds of millions of years ago in swampy forests. Layers of dirt and rock covered the plants over millions of years.
Hence, option D is correct. Coal is a non-renewable source of energy.