Which is an example of a non-renewable resource?

The correct answer is coal, which is classified as a non-renewable resource. Non-renewable resources are those that do not replenish at a sustainable rate on a human timeframe, meaning they are finite and can be depleted. Coal is formed from ancient organic matter that has been subjected to heat and pressure over millions of years, which means once it is extracted and used, it cannot be replaced on a human timescale.

In contrast, resources like wind energy, solar power, and hydro power are considered renewable. They can be naturally replenished and are sustainable over the long term. Wind and solar energy harness natural forces that are always available, while hydro power relies on the water cycle, which is continuously renewed through evaporation and precipitation. Thus, the resource that stands out as non-renewable is coal, highlighting its limited availability and the environmental consequences of its extraction and use.