Which material is used for the production of thermal energy?

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) Coal

Coal is the primary material used for the production of thermal energy in thermal power plants.
It is burned to produce heat, which converts water into steam. The steam drives turbines to generate electricity.

Non-renewable sources of energy are energy resources that cannot be replenished within a human timescale once depleted. They are finite and are derived from the Earth's natural resources. Examples include:

Fossil Fuels:

• Coal: Used in thermal power plants and industries.
• Petroleum: Used for transportation, heating, and electricity generation.
• Natural Gas: Used for heating, electricity, and as industrial fuel.

Nuclear Fuels:

• Uranium and Thorium: Used in nuclear power plants to generate electricity.

Characteristics:

• Limited in supply.
• Take millions of years to form (e.g., fossil fuels).
• Emit greenhouse gases and other pollutants when burned (except nuclear energy).

Additional Information:

• Water: Plays a crucial role in thermal power plants as it is heated to generate steam, which drives turbines.
  • Also used in hydropower plants, where flowing water generates electricity without burning fuel.
• Petroleum: A liquid fossil fuel used in oil-based power plants, transportation, and industries.
  • Less commonly used for electricity generation compared to coal due to its higher cost and environmental impact.