Fuel minerals; metals

Coal, oil and natural gas are fuel minerals, that is, fuels. They formed when the remains of plants and tiny creatures that lived millions of years ago slowly changed underground under pressure and heat. Coal is hard and black like a stone; burned, it gives heat and electricity. Oil is a thick liquid; petrol, diesel, kerosene and plastic are made from it. Natural gas is used in homes for cooking and heating. These fuels are non-renewable: when they run out, it would take millions of years for new ones to form. Wind, sunshine and flowing water are renewable; they do not run out. Burning fuel pollutes the air, so we should save it. Gas and fire are dangerous: if you smell gas, tell an adult and do not light a flame.