Approximately what percentage of U.S. energy consumption comes from nonrenewable energy sources?

• A. About 80%
• B. About 50%
• C. About 10%
• D. About 30%

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context: The question asks about the percentage of U.S. energy consumption that comes from nonrenewable energy sources. Nonrenewable energy sources include fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas, which are finite and cannot be replenished quickly.
2. Recall or research the typical energy consumption breakdown in the U.S.: Historically, the U.S. has relied heavily on nonrenewable sources for its energy needs, with renewable sources making up a smaller fraction.
3. Identify the main categories of energy sources: Nonrenewable (coal, oil, natural gas, nuclear) and renewable (solar, wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, biomass). Note that nuclear is often considered nonrenewable because it relies on uranium, a finite resource.
4. Use reliable data sources such as the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) to find the approximate share of nonrenewable energy in total consumption. This data typically shows that nonrenewable sources account for a large majority of energy consumption.
5. Conclude that the approximate percentage of U.S. energy consumption from nonrenewable sources is about 80%, based on the data and definitions above.