stenkol
Stenkol is a term primarily used in Norwegian and Danish to refer to coal, especially hard coal or anthracite. It is a dark, combustible sedimentary rock formed from accumulated and metamorphosed plant matter over millions of years. Stenkol is a significant source of energy, historically powering industrial processes and electricity generation. Its extraction typically involves mining from underground deposits. The combustion of stenkol releases heat, but also produces greenhouse gases and other pollutants, leading to environmental concerns and a global shift towards cleaner energy sources. While its direct use has declined in many parts of the world due to environmental regulations and the availability of alternatives, stenkol remains relevant in certain industrial applications and in regions where it is a primary energy resource. The term itself, "stenkol," literally translates to "stone coal," emphasizing its rock-like nature and its combustible properties.