Chemistry of Fossil Fuels

Fossil fuels are hydrocarbons formed from the remains of living organisms from ancient geological periods and are a major source of energy for many industrial processes. Fossil fuels are made up of carbon and hydrogen, and when these molecules are burned, they release energy. This energy is used to produce electricity, heat our homes and run our engines. The burning of fossil fuels produces carbon dioxide which contributes to climate change. One way to reduce the negative impacts of fossil fuels is to develop cleaner burning fuels and alternative sources of energy such as renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind. Increasing the use of renewable sources of energy and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels will help slow down the rate of global warming.