Fossil Fuels vs Solar Power
Comparison of fossil fuels and solar power
Fossil fuels are a source of non-rewewable energy. These hydrocarbon-rich resources were typically formed ages ago
when rapid burial of organic materials (brought on by mudslides, etc) was forced under the surface of the earth
before being oxidized.
Over time, temperature and pressure have forced this organic mass into a useable natural resources which power much of
the world's energy needs. When fossil fuels are burned, energy is generated, and this energy is usually used to
generate steam, which in turn turns a turbine, which generates usable electricity. Fossil fuels are current cheaper
and more reliable than solar power, but unlike solar panels, which are clean and utilize virtually limitless renewable
energy, the burning of fossil fuels pollutes the atmosphere, degrades local environments, cause health and smog
problems, and fossil fuels are in limited supply. Fossil Fuel reserves are expected to run dry (meaning that so
little will be left that extraction will no longer be sustainable or profitable) some time in the next century. Solar
panels are a viable solution to meet the world's energy needs during, and after, the impending energy crises brought
on by the depletion of oil, coal, and natural gas.