A fossil fuel is a type of energy source that is formed from the remains of plants and animals that lived millions of years ago. The three most common types of fossil fuels are coal, oil, and natural gas. These fuels are formed through a process called fossilization, which occurs when the remains of plants and animals are buried under layers of sediment and subjected to high pressure and heat over millions of years.
Fossil fuels work by releasing energy when they are burned. When fossil fuels are burned, they release chemical energy that can be used to generate electricity, heat homes and buildings, and power vehicles. Fossil fuels are used extensively around the world for energy production, but they have several drawbacks. For one, they are non-renewable, meaning that once they are used up, they cannot be replenished. Additionally, the burning of fossil fuels releases large amounts of greenhouse gases, which contribute to climate change.
Despite these drawbacks, fossil fuels are still widely used as an energy source around the world. However, many countries are working to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and transition to cleaner, renewable energy sources in an effort to address the negative impacts of fossil fuel use.