THE NATURAL RESOURCES

Natural resources are materials from the Earth that are used to
support life and meet people's needs. Any natural substance
that humans use can be considered a natural resource. These
resources can be classified into two main categories: renewable
and non-renewable.
 Renewable Resources:

Solar Energy: The sun's rays can be harnessed for electricity and heat.

Wind Energy: The kinetic energy of the wind can be converted into electricity using

wind turbines.

Hydropower: The energy of flowing water is used to generate electricity in

hydroelectric power plants.

Biomass: Organic materials, such as wood and crop residues, can be used for energy

production.
 Non-renewable Resources:

Fossil Fuels: These include coal, oil, and natural gas, formed from the remains of plants and animals

over millions of years.

Minerals: Various minerals such as iron, copper, gold, and rare earth elements are extracted for industrial

use.

Natural Gas: A hydrocarbon gas found beneath the Earth's surface, often used for heating and electricity

generation.

Nuclear Fuels: Uranium and thorium are used as fuel in nuclear power plants.
1. Water Resources:
1. Freshwater: Essential for human consumption, agriculture, and industrial
processes.
2. Oceans: Provide fish and other marine resources.
2. Agricultural Resources:
1. Soil: The foundation for agriculture, supporting the growth of crops.
2. Crops: Food, fibers, and other products obtained from cultivated plants.
3. Air and Atmosphere:
1. Air: Essential for life, and it contains gases like oxygen and nitrogen.
2. Climate: Atmospheric conditions influence weather patterns and are crucial for
various natural processes.
4. Wildlife:
1. Biodiversity: The variety of plant and animal species in ecosystems,
contributing to ecological balance.
5. Mineral Resources:
1. Metals and Non-metals: Used in construction, manufacturing, and technology.
TYPES OF NATURAL RESOURCES