Which statement best explains an environmental outcome of using fossil fuels for energy?(1 point)
Responses
Fossil fuels release carbon dioxide which plants use to make food.
Fossil fuels release carbon dioxide which plants use to make food.
When fossil fuels are burned, hazardous ash is created and carried through the environment by wind and dropped into nearby lakes and ponds.
When fossil fuels are burned, hazardous ash is created and carried through the environment by wind and dropped into nearby lakes and ponds.
Fossils fuels produce waste that exposes humans to dangerous levels of radiation.
Fossils fuels produce waste that exposes humans to dangerous levels of radiation.
When fossil fuels are burned, they release toxic gases into the air that cause pollution and increase global warming.
When fossil fuels are burned, they release toxic gases into the air that cause pollution and increase global warming.
The statement that best explains an environmental outcome of using fossil fuels for energy is:
"When fossil fuels are burned, they release toxic gases into the air that cause pollution and increase global warming."
The statement that best explains an environmental outcome of using fossil fuels for energy is: "When fossil fuels are burned, they release toxic gases into the air that cause pollution and increase global warming."
To arrive at this answer, we can understand the effects of burning fossil fuels on the environment.
When fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas are burned, they release carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These greenhouse gases trap heat, leading to the phenomenon known as global warming. The increased global temperatures resulting from this process can have far-reaching environmental consequences.
The burning of fossil fuels also produces other harmful pollutants, such as sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter. These pollutants contribute to air pollution, causing health issues for humans, animals, and ecosystems. It can lead to respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and even premature death.
Additionally, the combustion of fossil fuels can release hazardous ash and other byproducts that may contain toxic substances. These pollutants can be carried through the environment by wind and deposited into nearby bodies of water, such as lakes and ponds. This deposition can harm aquatic life and disrupt ecosystems.
While fossil fuels have been a significant source of energy for humanity, it is essential to recognize and address the environmental consequences associated with their use. Transitioning to cleaner and more sustainable sources of energy is crucial for mitigating these negative impacts and ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.