Coal

Definition

Coal is a fossil fuel that forms from the remains of ancient plants, subjected to heat and pressure over millions of years. It is primarily composed of carbon and is used as a major source of energy for electricity generation and industrial processes. As one of the most abundant fossil fuels, coal has significant implications for both energy production and environmental health due to its greenhouse gas emissions and pollution.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Coal is the largest source of energy for electricity generation globally, providing around 38% of total electricity production.
2. The combustion of coal releases significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2), contributing to climate change and air pollution.
3. Coal mining can result in environmental degradation, including habitat destruction, soil erosion, and water pollution from runoff.
4. There are several types of coal, including lignite, bituminous, and anthracite, each with different properties and uses.
5. Efforts are being made to reduce reliance on coal by promoting renewable energy sources, due to its negative impact on the environment.

Review Questions

• How does coal formation relate to the geological processes involved in the creation of fossil fuels?
  • Coal formation involves the accumulation of plant material in swampy environments that becomes buried under sediment over millions of years. This process requires heat and pressure to transform the organic matter into carbon-rich coal. Understanding this geological process is crucial as it highlights the long time frames required for fossil fuel formation and the importance of preserving existing natural ecosystems to prevent further depletion of fossil resources.
• Discuss the environmental impacts associated with coal extraction and burning, particularly in relation to climate change.
  • The extraction of coal can lead to significant environmental issues, such as land degradation, water pollution from mining runoff, and habitat destruction. Burning coal contributes heavily to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly CO2, which exacerbates climate change. The high levels of pollutants released during combustion also contribute to air quality issues, affecting human health and ecosystems. Addressing these impacts is essential for transitioning towards cleaner energy sources.
• Evaluate the future role of coal in global energy production given current trends towards renewable energy sources.
  • The future role of coal in global energy production is increasingly challenged by the shift towards renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydroelectric power. Many countries are implementing policies to reduce coal dependency due to its adverse environmental impacts. This transition is influenced by international climate agreements aiming to limit greenhouse gas emissions. As technology improves and costs for renewables decrease, it's likely that coal will continue to decline in favor of more sustainable energy options.

Related terms

anthracite: A high-grade coal that has the highest carbon content and burns the cleanest, often used for residential heating.

bituminous: A type of coal that is widely used for electricity generation and has a higher carbon content than sub-bituminous coal.

lignite: The lowest grade of coal, also known as brown coal, which has a high moisture content and is primarily used for electricity generation.