Final answer:
The answer is B. Biomass energy, which refers to the use of organic materials like plant matter and animal manure to produce clean and reliable energy. Biomass is a renewable energy source, supported by its abundance and carbon-neutral properties.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student has asked about a reliable and clean energy source that can be derived from plentiful raw materials such as farm manure. This description refers to B. Biomass energy. Biomass energy utilizes organic materials like plant matter and animal waste, which when abundant, offer a significant supply of this type of renewable energy. Other common forms of renewable energy include solar power, wind energy, and hydropower, which are often derived indirectly from the sun's energy.
Biomass can be used for both heating and generating electricity and it is considered a carbon-neutral form of energy because the carbon dioxide released during its combustion is roughly equivalent to the amount that plants absorbed during their growth.
Relying on renewable energy sources like biomass, solar, and wind is essential for a sustainable future. These sources allow for decentralized power production, which can be invaluable for homes, businesses, and remote communities. They also help in mitigating environmental issues such as greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change, unlike fossil fuels that involve extraction and transportation risks.