Question

Rank each of the above fossil fuels from cleanest to dirtiest to burn.

A. Natural Gas, Oil, Coal
B. Oil, Natural Gas, Coal
C. Coal, Oil, Natural Gas
D. Coal, Natural Gas, Oil

Answer 1

The correct order from cleanest to dirtiest fossil fuels is natural gas, oil, and coal, making the answer A. Natural Gas, Oil, Coal.

Step-by-step explanation:

The rank of fossil fuels from cleanest to dirtiest based on their relative emissions when burned is as follows:

1. Natural Gas: It is considered the cleanest of the three fossil fuels. Combustion of natural gas releases fewer pollutants and greenhouse gases compared to oil and coal.
2. Oil (Petroleum): Oil is cleaner than coal but dirtier than natural gas. It emits more greenhouse gases and pollutants than natural gas but less than coal when used as a fuel.
3. Coal: This is the dirtiest of the fossil fuels. Burning coal releases the highest amount of carbon dioxide and pollutants.

Therefore, the correct answer is A. Natural Gas, Oil, Coal.