Mr. Burton 3.4 Notes Please Grab: 1. Your folder. 2. Writing Utensil. 3. Answer the following question: What is a natural resource?

How we use natural resources A natural resource is any material in nature that people use and value. Some are used as is. Some are changed to make something new. Renewable resources are resources Earth replaces naturally. Nonrenewable resources are resources that cannot be replaced; they will run out one day. People must manage resources to ensure they will be available in the future. Deforestation, the clearing of trees, is a result of lack of management. Reforestation, planting trees to replace lost forestland, works to prevent resource loss.

Fuel, Heat, Energy Most energy we use comes from fossil fuels, nonrenewable resources that formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals. Coal—pollutes the air; used mainly to create electricity at power plants Petroleum, or oil—used to make fuels and other products Natural gas—cleanest-burning fossil fuel; used mainly for heating and cooking Will not run out Generally better for the environment Hydroelectric power—the production of electricity from waterpower—is the main alternative to fossil fuels. Wind is used to power wind turbines that create electricity. Solar power and geothermal energy—heat from within Earth—can heat water for homes and be turned into electricity.

Nuclear Energy Obtained by splitting atoms, small particles of matter Uses the metal uranium, so some consider it a nonrenewable resource Produces dangerous wastes that must be stored for thousands of years before they are safe Accidents at nuclear power plants have terrible effects.

Mineral Resources Mineral resources include metals, salt, rocks, and gemstones. Minerals fulfill countless needs. Minerals are nonrenewable, and therefore need to be conserved. Recycling can make the supply of mineral resources last longer.

People’s lives and Countries wealth via resources The natural resources available to people affect their lifestyles and needs. People in areas with many natural resources sometimes have more choices on ways to dress, eat, live, travel, and entertain themselves. People in areas with fewer natural resources will likely have fewer choices and different needs. Availability of natural resources affects countries’ economies. The many resources available in the United States have helped it become one of the world’s wealthiest economies. Countries with few natural resources often have weak economies. Some countries have only one or two valuable resources but few others.

Exit Slip: Identify Three (3) different types of resources. Two (2) ways we use fuel, heat, or energy. One (1) question you still have or “aha” moment.