Final answer:
Fossil fuels are derived from the Sun through the process of photosynthesis. Plants and animals that lived millions of years ago obtained energy from the Sun, and their remains were transformed into fossil fuels under heat and pressure. Burning fossil fuels releases the stored energy and contributes to climate change.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fossil fuels are derived from the Sun because they are formed from the remains of plants and animals that lived millions of years ago. These organisms obtained their energy from the Sun through the process of photosynthesis. When they died and were buried under layers of sediment, the organic matter underwent heat and pressure over time, resulting in the formation of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas.
For example, coal is formed from the remains of ancient forests. The plants in these forests absorbed sunlight and converted it into chemical energy through photosynthesis. Over time, the layers of dead plants were compressed and turned into coal due to geological processes.
By burning fossil fuels, we release the stored energy that originated from the Sun millions of years ago. However, it's important to note that burning fossil fuels also releases carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, which contribute to climate change.
Learn more about Fossil fuels and their origin from the Sun