FOSSIL FUELS: A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW

Fuel for Transportation Course | Source: Britannica, Khan Academy

Prepared By: Ma. Johanna B. Testa

What Are Fossil Fuels?

Fossil fuels are hydrocarbon-rich substances formed from the ancient remains of plants and animals, subjected to intense heat and pressure over millions of years within Earth's crust. They serve as major energy sources due to their high carbon and hydrogen content, making them combustible and efficient for energy production.

Formation of Fossil Fuels

The formation of fossil fuels involves several geological processes:

Organic Matter Accumulation: Dead plants, algae, and microorganisms accumulate in oxygen-poor environments like swamps and ocean floors.
Sedimentation: Layers of sediment cover the organic material, creating pressure over time.
Heat and Pressure: Over millions of years, increased heat and pressure transform the organic matter into fossil fuels:

Coal: Formed primarily from terrestrial plant material.

Petroleum and Natural Gas: Derived mainly from marine microorganisms.

Types of Fossil Fuels

1. Coal

Description: A solid, carbon-rich material used primarily for electricity generation and steel production.
Formation: Originates from plant debris in ancient swamps subjected to heat and pressure.
Major Producers: China, the United States, and India.

2. Petroleum (Crude Oil)

Description: A liquid fossil fuel refined into products like gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel.
Formation: Formed from marine microorganisms buried under sedimentary rock layers.
Major Producers: Saudi Arabia, Russia, and the United States.

3. Natural Gas

Description: A gaseous fossil fuel composed mainly of methane, used for heating, electricity, and as industrial feedstock.
Formation: Often found alongside petroleum deposits, formed from similar organic materials.
Major Producers: Russia, the United States, and Iran.

Extraction Methods

Coal Mining

Surface Mining: Involves removing soil and rock above coal seams (e.g., strip mining).
Underground Mining: Tunnels are dug to access deep coal deposits.

Oil and Natural Gas Drilling

Exploration: Geologists use seismic surveys to locate potential reserves.
Drilling: Wells are drilled to extract oil and gas.
Enhanced Recovery: Techniques like hydraulic fracturing (fracking) and injecting substances to maintain pressure and improve extraction rates.

Global Distribution

Coal: Abundant in the United States, Russia, China, and India.
Oil: Major reserves in the Middle East (e.g., Saudi Arabia, Iraq), Russia, and Venezuela.
Natural Gas: Significant reserves in Russia, Iran, Qatar, and the United States.

Classification of Coal by Rank

Coal is classified based on carbon content and energy output:

Peat: Partially decayed plant material; precursor to coal.
Lignite: Brown coal with low carbon content and energy density.
Sub-bituminous: Higher carbon content than lignite; used in electricity generation.
Bituminous: Widely used for electricity and steel production; higher energy content.
Anthracite: Highest carbon content; burns cleanly with high energy output.

Environmental and Health Impacts

Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change.
Air Pollution: Emissions include sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulates, leading to smog and respiratory issues.
Water Pollution: Oil spills and runoff from mining operations contaminate water sources.
Health Risks: Exposure to pollutants from fossil fuels is linked to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and premature death.

Fossil Fuels: A Comprehensive Overview