Which resource can be used up, but is considered renewable because it can replace itself?

trees
wind
geothermal
copper

7 answers

The resource that can be used up but is considered renewable because it can replace itself is trees. Trees can be replanted and grown again, making them a renewable resource when managed sustainably. In contrast, wind and geothermal energy are naturally replenished, while copper is a non-renewable resource since it does not replace itself.

Which question can a student ask to determine whether a resource is renewable or nonrenewable?
Is the resource available naturally?
Is the resource unlimited or able to be replaced within a reasonable time?
Is there a practical use for the resource?
Is the collection of the resource damaging to the environment?

The question a student can ask to determine whether a resource is renewable or nonrenewable is: Is the resource unlimited or able to be replaced within a reasonable time? This question directly addresses the key characteristic that distinguishes renewable resources (which can be replenished) from nonrenewable resources (which cannot be replaced within a human timeframe).

Which energy resource is nonrenewable?
coal
wind
water
biomass

The energy resource that is nonrenewable is coal. Coal is a fossil fuel formed from ancient organic matter and takes millions of years to form, making it a nonrenewable resource. In contrast, wind, water (hydropower), and biomass can be replenished in a relatively short time frame, which categorizes them as renewable resources.

Which statement provides evidence that petroleum is a nonrenewable resource?
Petroleum harms the environment when it is used.
It takes millions of years for petroleum to form.
Many products are made from petroleum.
Petroleum is a source of energy.

The statement that provides evidence that petroleum is a nonrenewable resource is: It takes millions of years for petroleum to form. This indicates that petroleum cannot be replenished within a human timescale, which is a defining characteristic of nonrenewable resources.