Fissiilisiä

Fissiilisiä is a Finnish term that broadly refers to fossil fuels. These are naturally occurring combustible organic substances, typically in the form of rock or gas, that are found underground and are formed from the remains of ancient organisms that have been subjected to heat and pressure over millions of years. The primary components of most fossil fuels are hydrocarbons.

The main types of fossil fuels include coal, petroleum (crude oil), and natural gas. Coal is a solid sedimentary rock formed from the decomposition of plant matter. Petroleum is a liquid mixture of hydrocarbons that can be refined into various fuels and products. Natural gas is a gaseous mixture, predominantly methane, often found alongside petroleum deposits or in separate underground reservoirs.

Fossil fuels have been a cornerstone of industrialization and modern energy production due to their high energy density and relative abundance. They are extracted from the Earth through mining and drilling operations. The combustion of fossil fuels releases significant amounts of energy, which is used to generate electricity, power vehicles, and heat homes.

However, the use of fossil fuels also has significant environmental consequences. Their combustion releases greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, which are major contributors to climate change. Additionally, the extraction and transportation of fossil fuels can lead to localized environmental damage, including habitat destruction and pollution. Consequently, there is a global effort to transition to renewable energy sources.