Question

select the correct answer.
which renewable resource could become a nonrenewable resource if used faster than earths ability to replenish its supply?
a. water
b. manganese
c. sunlight
d. wind

Explanation:

1. First, recall the definitions of renewable and non - renewable resources. Renewable resources are those that can be replenished naturally over time, while non - renewable resources are finite and take a very long time (geological timescales) to form.
2. Analyze option B: Manganese is a mineral, which is a non - renewable resource by nature as it is mined from the Earth and there is a limited supply, so it is not a renewable resource that can become non - renewable due to over - use in this context.
3. Analyze option C: Sunlight is a renewable resource that is essentially inexhaustible on a human timescale. The sun will continue to emit light for billions of years, and human use of sunlight (for solar energy etc.) does not deplete its supply faster than it is replenished.
4. Analyze option D: Wind is a renewable resource driven by atmospheric processes. The energy in wind is constantly replenished by the sun's heating of the Earth's atmosphere, and human use of wind energy (wind turbines) does not deplete the wind faster than it is generated.
5. Analyze option A: Water is a renewable resource through the water cycle (evaporation, condensation, precipitation). However, if we use water (for example, deplete aquifers through excessive pumping, or pollute water sources beyond the natural purification capacity) faster than the Earth can replenish it (through the water cycle and natural purification), it can become a non - renewable resource in the sense that the usable water supply becomes limited.

Answer:

A. water