Fossiilisestiilmausta

Fossiilisestiilmausta, also known as fossil fuels, refers to a group of energy sources formed from the remains of ancient organisms. These organic materials, primarily plants and animals, were buried under layers of sediment over millions of years. The immense pressure and heat from these overlying layers, combined with a lack of oxygen, transformed the organic matter into rich carbon-based compounds.

The main types of fossil fuels are coal, oil (petroleum), and natural gas. Coal is a solid sedimentary rock formed from terrestrial plant matter. Oil is a liquid mixture of hydrocarbons found in underground reservoirs, typically formed from marine microorganisms. Natural gas is a gaseous mixture, primarily methane, often found alongside oil deposits or in separate geological formations.

These fuels have been a cornerstone of industrial development and modern society due to their high energy density and relative ease of extraction and use. They are burned to generate electricity, power transportation, and fuel industries. However, their combustion releases significant amounts of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change. Furthermore, the extraction and transportation of fossil fuels can lead to environmental damage, including habitat disruption and pollution. The ongoing reliance on fossil fuels presents a significant challenge in the global effort to transition to more sustainable energy sources.