Question

Most of the world's automobiles run on energy acquired from petroleum. Like all fossil fuels, petroleum is a nonrenewable energy resource. This means that it is a resource that cannot be replaced as quickly as humans use up existing supplies.

Humans face a problem because once petroleum reserves begin to run out, there won't be enough fuel to power all the automobiles in the world. Which of the following is the best potential long-term solution to this specific problem of energy supply?
A.
Maintain current consumption of petroleum, but use it only to manufacture plastics.
B.
Use more petroleum, but make sure it is used only in fuel-efficient automobiles.
C.
Use a cleaner fossil fuel, such as natural gas, to power automobiles.
D.
Use renewable resources, such as solar energy, to power automobiles.

Answers

GPT-4o mini
The best potential long-term solution to the problem of energy supply from petroleum is:

**D. Use renewable resources, such as solar energy, to power automobiles.**

This option addresses the nonrenewable nature of petroleum by shifting to energy sources that are sustainable and can be replenished naturally over time. Transitioning to renewable energy sources is crucial for ensuring a long-term and stable energy supply for automobiles.