Question

which scenario describes a nonrenewable resource being used for energy?
a pitcher of tea is heated by the sun.
a steak is cooked over a charcoal fire.
a pot of water is boiled on a gas stove.
a load of laundry is dried on a clothesline.

Explanation:

1. Analyze Option A: The sun is a renewable energy source (solar energy), so heating tea with the sun uses a renewable resource. Eliminate A.
2. Analyze Option B: Charcoal is made from wood, and wood is a renewable resource (as trees can be replanted). So a charcoal fire uses a renewable - derived resource, but charcoal itself is often considered a biomass fuel which is renewable in the long term. Eliminate B.
3. Analyze Option C: Gas (like natural gas) used in a gas stove is a nonrenewable resource (fossil fuel, formed over millions of years and finite in supply). Boiling water on a gas stove uses this nonrenewable resource for energy.
4. Analyze Option D: Drying laundry on a clothesline uses solar energy (from the sun) and wind, both renewable resources. Eliminate D.

Answer:

C. A pot of water is boiled on a gas stove.