Which pair correctly contrasts renewable and nonrenewable resources?

Which pair correctly contrasts renewable and nonrenewable resources?

• A. Renewable resources cannot be replaced; Nonrenewable resources can be replaced
• B. Renewable resources can be replaced, Nonrenewable resources cannot be replaced
• C. Renewable resources are always finite; Nonrenewable resources are infinite
• D. Renewable resources are not useful; Nonrenewable resources are useful

Answer: (B)

Replacement ability is what separates renewable from nonrenewable resources. Renewable resources can be replenished or regenerated relatively quickly through natural processes or human action—think sunlight, wind, flowing water, and trees that regrow after harvesting. Because they can be replenished, there’s potential for a sustainable supply as long as they’re managed wisely. Nonrenewable resources, such as coal, oil, and minerals, form over geological timescales and exist in finite quantities; once extracted and used, they aren’t replaced on human timescales, so their supplies diminish. That’s why the statement that renewable resources can be replaced and nonrenewable resources cannot be replaced is the best description of the difference. The other ideas don’t fit: renewable resources aren’t inherently unable to be replaced, nor are they always finite or useless.

Replacement ability is what separates renewable from nonrenewable resources. Renewable resources can be replenished or regenerated relatively quickly through natural processes or human action—think sunlight, wind, flowing water, and trees that regrow after harvesting. Because they can be replenished, there’s potential for a sustainable supply as long as they’re managed wisely. Nonrenewable resources, such as coal, oil, and minerals, form over geological timescales and exist in finite quantities; once extracted and used, they aren’t replaced on human timescales, so their supplies diminish.

That’s why the statement that renewable resources can be replaced and nonrenewable resources cannot be replaced is the best description of the difference. The other ideas don’t fit: renewable resources aren’t inherently unable to be replaced, nor are they always finite or useless.