Final answer:
The main source of energy used in US power plants in 2009 was coal, and understanding its environmental impact, especially on climate change, is crucial. Scientists must consider sustainability and shifting to renewable energy for future generations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The pie chart shows that coal was the main source of energy used in power plants in the United States in 2009. To understand this chart in terms of climate change, scientists need to find out the environmental impact of various energy sources, particularly the carbon emissions associated with fossil fuels like coal and natural gas.
For future generations, they also need to think about sustainability and the shift towards renewable energy sources to combat the negative effects of climate change.