Which of the following is an example of renewable energy?

• A. Coal
• B. Natural gas
• C. Solar energy
• D. Nuclear energy

Answer: (C)

Solar energy is an example of renewable energy because it is derived from the sun, which is a natural resource that can be harnessed repeatedly without depleting its availability. The sun emits energy continuously, so we can collect solar energy as long as the sun shines. This type of energy production has minimal environmental impact and does not rely on finite resources, making it sustainable over the long term.

In contrast, coal and natural gas are fossil fuels that take millions of years to form and can be exhausted, meaning once they are used up, they cannot be replenished within a human timescale. Nuclear energy, while it is a low-emission energy source, depends on uranium or another material that is mined from the Earth, which means it is also not renewable. Solar energy stands apart as a sustainable alternative that harnesses a solar abundance for power generation.