Renewable and Nonrenewable Energy Sources Worksheet
Name: _______________________
Part 1: Key Terms
Match the following terms with their definitions:
a. Renewable Energy
b. Nonrenewable Energy
c. Fossil Fuels
d. Sustainability
Definitions:
___ Energy that comes from sources that will not run out, such as the sun, wind, and
water.
___ Energy that comes from sources that can run out, such as coal, oil, and natural gas.
___ The ability to meet present energy needs without harming future generations.
___ Energy that is formed from the remains of dead plants and animals over millions
of years.
Part 2: Classify the Energy Sources
Write whether each energy source is renewable or nonrenewable.
a. Solar energy: ___________
b. Coal: ___________
c. Wind energy: ___________
d. Oil: ___________
e. Natural gas: ___________
f. Geothermal energy: ___________
g. Biomass (wood): ___________
h. Nuclear energy: ___________
Part 3: Advantages and Disadvantages
Write one advantage and one disadvantage for each type of energy:
Renewable Energy:
a. Advantage: ______________________________
b. Disadvantage: ___________________________
Nonrenewable Energy:
a. Advantage: ______________________________
b. Disadvantage: ___________________________
Part 4: Environmental Impact
Answer the questions below:
a. How do nonrenewable energy sources (like coal and oil) affect the environment?
______________________________________________________________
b. Why is renewable energy considered a better option for the environment?
______________________________________________________________
Part 5: Real-World Applications
Complete the sentences with the correct word from the list:
(solar, wind, coal, oil, geothermal)
a. __________ energy is used in solar panels to generate electricity for homes and
buildings.
b. __________ power is used in wind farms to create electricity for cities.
c. __________ is a nonrenewable energy source that is used to make electricity in
power plants.
d. __________ energy is used to heat homes directly from the Earth’s internal heat.
Part 6: Real-World Energy Solutions
Answer the following questions:
a. Solar panels are used in many homes around the world. How do these panels help
save energy?
______________________________________________________________
b. Wind turbines are installed in many countries to generate power. How can wind
energy reduce the use of nonrenewable resources?
______________________________________________________________
c. Electric cars use electricity instead of gasoline. How does using electric cars help
reduce the use of nonrenewable energy?
______________________________________________________________
Part 7: Thinking Critically
Short Answer:
a. If we keep using fossil fuels, what might happen to the Earth in the future?
______________________________________________________________
b. How can we use less nonrenewable energy in our daily lives?
______________________________________________________________
Teacher’s Notes:

Discuss examples of real-world applications of renewable energy, such as
solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal power.


Help students understand the environmental impact of both renewable and
nonrenewable energy sources.
Encourage students to think about ways they can use less nonrenewable
energy in their own lives.