With examples, distinguish between renewable resources and non-renewable resources (5 Marks)

Sure, here is a detailed response to your question:

1. Definition (1 Mark): Renewable resources are those that can be replenished naturally in the course of time. These resources are infinite and will not run out, no matter how much we use them. On the other hand, non-renewable resources are those that do not replenish in a short span of time. These resources are finite and will eventually deplete with continuous usage.

2. Examples of Renewable Resources (1 Mark): Some examples of renewable resources include solar energy, wind energy, and biomass. Solar energy is harnessed from the sun and can be used for various purposes like heating, lighting, and generating electricity. Wind energy is harnessed from the wind using wind turbines to generate electricity. Biomass is organic material that comes from plants and animals, and it contains stored energy from the sun.

3. Examples of Non-Renewable Resources (1 Mark): Examples of non-renewable resources include coal, natural gas, and oil. These resources take millions of years to form and once used, cannot be replenished in a human's lifetime. They are used for various purposes like heating, electricity generation, and transportation.

4. Differences in Usage (1 Mark): Renewable resources are often used in a sustainable way, meaning they are used in a way that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Non-renewable resources, however, are often used in an unsustainable way, as their usage leads to depletion of the resource.

5. Environmental Impact (1 Mark): The use of renewable resources generally has a lower environmental impact compared to non-renewable resources. The extraction and use of non-renewable resources often lead to environmental degradation and pollution. For example, burning fossil fuels (a non-renewable resource) releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming and climate change. On the other hand, using solar or wind energy (renewable resources) does not release harmful emissions.