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Natural resources can be classified into two main categories based on their renewability: renewable resources and non-renewable resources. Here is a detailed classification with examples for each group:
### 1. Renewable Resources
Renewable resources are those that can be replenished naturally over short periods of time. They are sustainable and can be used repeatedly without depleting them.
**Examples:**
- **Solar Energy:** Energy from the sun that can be harnessed using solar panels.
- **Wind Energy:** Energy generated from wind using wind turbines.
- **Hydropower:** Energy produced from moving water, such as rivers and waterfalls.
- **Biomass:** Organic materials, such as plant and animal waste, that can be converted into energy.
- **Geothermal Energy:** Energy derived from the heat of the Earth's interior.
### 2. Non-Renewable Resources
Non-renewable resources are those that do not replenish at a sufficient rate compared to their usage. They are finite and can eventually be exhausted.
**Examples:**
- **Fossil Fuels:** Includes coal, oil, and natural gas, which are formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals over millions of years.
- **Minerals:** Includes metals like gold, silver, iron, and non-metals like limestone and clay, which are extracted from the Earth.
- **Nuclear Fuels:** Includes uranium and thorium, which are used in nuclear power plants to generate energy.
### Summary
- **Renewable Resources:** Solar energy, wind energy, hydropower, biomass, geothermal energy.
- **Non-Renewable Resources:** Fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas), minerals (gold, silver, iron), nuclear fuels (uranium, thorium).
These classifications help in understanding the sustainability and long-term availability of natural resources, guiding their usage and conservation efforts.