Energy is the ability to do work, and it comes in many different forms and from a variety of sources. When we talk about energy, we often categorize it as non-renewable or renewable. Non-renewable means that the source of this type of energy cannot be replaced once it is consumed. Fossil fuels such as coal, petroleum and natural gas are examples of non-renewable energy sources. Renewable means that this energy source can be replenished naturally with the passage of time.
Solar, wind, biomass, hydropower and geothermal are some of the most common renewable energy sources. As consumers, we use energy in a variety of ways each day. In the U.S. 93% of all the energy we use comes from non-renewable sources such as petroleum, coal and natural gas, which are sometimes referred to as "fossil fuels". The graph to the right shows us the role that both types of energy play in the way we use our energy resources.
Show What You Know Game
Show what you know by reading each question and clicking on the correct energy icon.
