Coal By: Jakob, CJ, and David

Description Coal is a sedimentary rock that is black or brownish-black. Usually occurring in rock stratum in layers or veins. These layers of coal are called coal beds or coal seams. Formed from remains of ancient plants in swamps from millions of years ago.

Non-renewable or Renewable Because coal was formed by ancient plants millions of years ago, it makes coal a non-renewable resource.

Where is coal located and how we recover it: Coal is located underground in many areas of the country.Shallow seams are surface mined. Coal is buried deep underground, so we use underground mines shafts to reach it.

Ways we turn coal into energy we use: Most coal is burned to produce heat. Coal can make electricity in a five step process. Thermal coal that has been pulverised to a fine powder is burned. The resulting heat is used to turn water into steam. The steam at very high pressure is then used to spin a turbine, connected to an electrical generator. The spinning turbine causes large magnets to turn within copper wire coils. The moving magnets cause electrons in the wires to move from place to place, creating an electrical current and producing electricity. originenergy.com.au

Who uses coal and for what purpose: Power plants burn coal to produce electricity. Industries also burn coal to make products, especially steel production, cement manufacturing, and as liquid fuel. Steam Coal- also known as thermal coal-is mainly used in power generation. Coking Coal- also known as metallurgical coal- is mainly used in steel production.

Effect of using coal on the environment: Burning coal can pollute the air and cause acid rain. Burning coal also produce carbon dioxide.

Important facts about coal Most abundant fossil fuel It's more plentiful than oil and natural gas Easy to get U.S has largest reserves of coal in the world