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300 years of fossil fuels in 300 seconds

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Fossil fuels are fuels formed by natural processes such as anaerobic decomposition of buried dead organisms. The age of the organisms and their resulting fossil fuels is typically millions of years, and sometimes exceeds 650 million years. Explore this lesson to learn all you ever needed to know about fossil fuels.

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Additional Resources for you to Explore
Investigate one of the following topics:
fossil fuels and...
a) agriculture
b) economy
c) medicine
d) China's coal use
e) environmental problems
f) international relations
Biofuels can provide energy without the reliance on environmentally harmful fossils fuels -- but scientists are still searching for a plentiful source. Craig A. Kohn demonstrates how cellulose, the naturally abundant tough walls of plant cells, might be the solution.
Where on Earth can our energy-hungry society turn to replace oil, coal, and natural gas? Read this National Geographic article to learn more.
Fossil fuels are a nonrenewable resource, increasing use of which is causing increasing problems throughout the world. What is your responsibility in transitioning to a cleaner fuel future?
Avatar for Jacquelyn Scherer
Lesson Creator
Where do you see positive opportunities for jobs and economic growth in the declining future of fossil fuels?
08/08/2013 • 
 12 Responses
 / 12 Updates

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