The Case for Fossil Fuels

Evelyn, Aria, and Anika are discussing in their science class. They are trying to understand why our society is so dependent on fossil fuels. What could be one of the reasons?

• They are expensive and hard to find

• They are inefficient and release little energy

• They are difficult to extract, refine, and use

• They are currently cheap, plentiful, and efficient

Answer explanation

Fossil fuels are currently cheap, plentiful, and efficient, which is why our society is dependent on them.

Aiden, Abigail, and Ethan are discussing about different energy sources for a science project. They are trying to identify an energy source that is not dependent on weather conditions. Which energy source should they choose?

• Wind power

• Solar power

• Fossil fuels

• Hydropower

Answer explanation

Fossil fuels should be chosen as they are not dependent on weather conditions.

Avery, Michael, and Ethan are discussing the advantages of different energy sources. Avery argues that coal has an advantage over oil and natural gas. What could be Avery's argument?

• Coal produces useful materials like plastics

• Coal is found in a wide range of locations

• Coal is more efficient

• Coal is easier to transport

Answer explanation

Avery's argument is that coal is found in a wide range of locations.

Benjamin and Abigail are discussing the impact of the oil industry. Benjamin argues that one of the benefits of extracting and refining fossil fuels is what?

• It provides jobs and boosts the economy

• It harms wildlife and depletes water resources

• It reduces greenhouse gas emissions

• It produces clean and renewable energy

Answer explanation

The extraction and refining of fossil fuels provide jobs and boost the economy, making it a benefit of the oil industry.

Henry, Evelyn, and Grace are studying the environmental impacts of fossil fuel extraction. They are particularly interested in the potential harms or disadvantages of opening a mine or well. What is one of the potential harms they might discover in their research?

• It creates new job opportunities

• It promotes renewable energy development

• It increases water pollution

• It reduces dependence on foreign oil

Answer explanation

One potential harm they might discover is that it increases water pollution.