Which fossil fuel has had the most significant influence on human transportation over the last century hydrogen petroleum natural gas coal

1 answer

Petroleum has had the most significant influence on human transportation over the last century. The development and widespread adoption of gasoline and diesel fuels derived from petroleum have powered automobiles, trucks, airplanes, and ships, fundamentally shaping modern transportation systems. While natural gas and coal have played roles in transportation, especially in specific applications (like coal for trains historically), petroleum remains the dominant fuel source for most forms of transportation today. Hydrogen is gaining attention as a potential future fuel but has not yet had a significant impact compared to petroleum.