Chapter Overview
This chapter covers the fossil fuels coal and petroleum, which are formed from ancient organic matter over millions of years. It discusses the formation, extraction, refining processes, and applications of these fuels, as well as the environmental challenges associated with their use.
Important Keywords
- Fossil Fuels: Natural fuels such as coal and petroleum formed from the remains of ancient organisms.
- Coal: A combustible black or brownish-black sedimentary rock used as a fuel.
- Petroleum: A liquid mixture of hydrocarbons, also known as crude oil, used to produce fuels and other products.
- Extraction: The process of removing fossil fuels from the earth.
- Refining: The process of converting crude petroleum into usable products.
- Combustion: The burning process that releases energy from fossil fuels.
- Pollution: Environmental degradation caused by the extraction and use of fossil fuels.
- Hydrocarbons: Organic compounds consisting entirely of hydrogen and carbon, which form the basis of coal and petroleum.