How are fossil fuels formed?

By photosynthesis
From water released by plants
By heat energy intensifying over the ocean
From decaying matter not recycled into the atmosphere

1 answer

Fossil fuels are primarily formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals that have been subjected to heat and pressure over millions of years. The correct option related to the formation of fossil fuels among the choices you provided is:

From decaying matter not recycled into the atmosphere.

Here’s a brief overview of the process:

  1. Organic Matter Accumulation: Fossil fuels originate from the remains of organic matter (mainly plants and microorganisms) that accumulate in sedimentary environments, typically in swamps or ocean floors.

  2. Burial: Over time, layers of sediment build up over this organic matter, burying it.

  3. Heat and Pressure: As more layers accumulate, the pressure and temperature increase. This process alters the chemical composition of the organic material.

  4. Transformation: Over millions of years, the heat and pressure transform the organic remains into fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas.

It’s important to note that while photosynthesis is a process through which plants produce organic matter, fossil fuels themselves are formed much later through geological processes.