Question

Which of the following(s) are called fossil fuel?
A.Mineral coal
B.Petroleum
C.Natural gas
D.All of the above

Answer 1

Fossil fuels are a major resource of energy. There are two types of resources:
Renewable resources: The resources that can be replenished at the rate they are being used are known as renewable resources. They are infinite.
Non-renewable resources: The resources that cannot be replenished at the rate they are being used are known as non-renewable resources. They are finite.
Formation of fossil fuels takes over millions of years. They cannot be replenished. Thus, fossil fuels are non-renewable resources of energy. Fossil fuels contain carbon and hydrogen and are burned to obtain energy.

Complete step by step answer:
The fuels produced by decomposition of plants and animals are known as fossil fuels. The fossil fuels on burning get oxidized to carbon dioxide and water and produce significant amounts of energy per unit mass.
Mineral coal, petroleum and natural gas are formed from the decomposition of dead plants and their exposure to heat and pressure.
Formation of mineral coal, petroleum and natural gas take over millions of years. Thus, mineral coal, petroleum and natural gas are the non-renewable resources of energy.
Thus, mineral coal, petroleum and natural gas are called fossil fuels.

So, the correct answer is Option D .

Additional Information:
Use of fossil fuels has many negative effects on the environment, such as:
Sulfuric acid and nitric acid are produced on burning of fossil fuels. These acids produced have adverse effects on the environment and natural vegetation. Also, monuments and sculptures made of limestone and marble are affected by these acids as calcium carbonate dissolves in the acids.
Burning of the fossil fuels releases radioactive materials like uranium and thorium in the atmosphere.
Mining of coal has adverse effects on the environment. Drilling of oil from the sea shores causes hazards to aquatic life.

Note:
Mineral coal, petroleum and natural gas are formed from the decomposition of dead plants. The process of formation takes ages and thus, fossil fuels cannot be replaced and can go extinct.
Fossil fuels provide energy on combustion. Thus, mineral coal, petroleum and natural gas are called fossil fuels.