Question

1. what are fossil fuels primarily composed of?

a. nitrogen and oxygen
b. carbon and hydrogen
c. sodium and chlorine
d. iron and sulfur

1. what is the first stage in coal formation?

a. lignite
b. peat
c. bituminous coal
d. anthracite

Explanation:

• Fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas are hydrocarbons. Hydrocarbons are compounds made of carbon and hydrogen atoms.
• The process of coal formation (coalification) starts with plant material accumulating in swampy areas. Over time, with pressure and heat, it transforms. The first stage is peat (partially decomposed plant matter), then it can become lignite, bituminous coal, and anthracite as the process continues with more pressure and heat over geological time.

Answer:

1. B. Carbon and hydrogen
2. B. Peat