Fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas currently provide over 85% of the energy consumed in the United States and are expected to continue powering the economy for decades. Coal forms from decayed plant matter that is compressed over millions of years, oil forms from the remains of ancient organisms, and natural gas forms from small aquatic organisms. These fossil fuels are refined and used to power transportation, generate electricity, produce raw materials, and heat homes. However, extraction and transportation accidents can also cause ecological disasters like the Exxon Valdez and Deepwater Horizon oil spills.

1. Fossil Fuel Josselyn Galvez Per. 1/2