Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding fossil fuels?

I. The fossil fuels are renewable sources of energy.

II. Burning fossil fuels leads to acid rain. 

The correct answer is Only II.

Key Points

• Fossil fuels are not renewable sources of energy. They are formed over millions of years from the remains of dead plants and animals.
• Burning fossil fuels releases sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) into the atmosphere, which can cause acid rain.
• Acid rain has harmful effects on plants, aquatic animals, and infrastructure, and it can lead to soil degradation.
• Fossil fuels include coal, oil, and natural gas, which are primary sources of energy for many countries worldwide.
• Transitioning to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydro power is essential for sustainable development.

Additional Information

• Renewable Energy: Energy from sources that are naturally replenishing such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal.
• Greenhouse Gases: Gases like carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄) that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.
• Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂): A gas produced by volcanic activity and industrial processes, especially the burning of coal and oil at power plants and refineries.
• Nitrogen Oxides (NOₓ): Gases produced from vehicle emissions, industrial processes, and the combustion of fossil fuels.
• Climate Change: Long-term shifts and alterations in temperature and weather patterns, primarily caused by human activities, especially fossil fuel combustion.