What is the difference between renewable and non-renewable energy sources?

Renewable energy sources are characterized by their ability to be replenished naturally over a relatively short period. This means that energy can be continuously generated without depleting the source, such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal energy. These sources harness natural processes that are sustainably ongoing, allowing for a continuous supply of energy.

On the other hand, non-renewable energy sources, such as fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) and nuclear energy, are finite and cannot be replenished in a human timeframe. Once these resources are extracted and consumed, they take millions of years to form again, if they can be formed at all. This fundamental difference underlines the sustainability of renewable energy versus the eventual depletion of non-renewable sources.

The other options do not accurately reflect the key differences between renewable and non-renewable energy sources. For instance, while cost can be a factor in energy production, it is not a defining characteristic of the energy sources themselves. Similarly, renewable energy sources can be utilized in various regions, not just in specific ones, and their environmental impact can vary significantly depending on how they are harnessed and managed.