General Physics (Renewable and Nonrenewable resources)

10/19/2026

Renewable resources

These are replenished naturally

Nonrenewable resources

These are Finite in a Human Timescale

Solar, Wind, Biomass, Geothermal, and Wave

The renewable resources:

Petroleum, Natural Gas, and Coal

The Nonrenewable resources:

Solar Energy

SUN'S RADIATION →HEAT & LIGHT→ ELECTRICAL ENERGY

Wind Energy

Moving Air → Mechanical Rotation → Electrical Energy

Biomass Energy

Biological Material Stored Chemical Energy → Heat & Fuel

Geothermal Energy

Earth's Internal Heat > Pressurized Steam > Turbine Generator

Wave Energy

Ocean Surface Waves Mechanical Absorbers Electricity

Geothermal Energy

is heat energy found beneath Earth's surface.

Wave Energy

uses the movement of ocean surface waves to generate electricity.

Absorbers

One approach uses floating or buoy-like devices called

Petroleum

is a naturally occurring fossil fuel found beneath the Earth's surface.

Natural Gas

formed over millions of years and occurs in underground reserves. It is often found together with petroleum, although it can also occur in other geological settings.

Methane

is the most common component of natural gas.

Coal

formed from ancient plant material that was buried and compressed over millions of years.