What distinguishes renewable resources from non-renewable resources?

Renewable resources are distinguished by their ability to be replenished naturally over time. This means that they can regenerate through natural processes, making them sustainable for long-term use. Examples of renewable resources include solar energy, wind energy, biomass, and hydroelectric power. These resources are available indefinitely as long as their use is managed properly and not overwhelmed by demand, allowing them to maintain ecological balance.

In contrast, non-renewable resources, such as fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) and minerals, exist in finite quantities and cannot be replenished on a human timescale. Once extracted and used, they are gone, which leads to depletion and potential environmental issues associated with their extraction and consumption.

The other options provide incorrect classifications. For instance, resources do not have to be synthetic or natural to be classified as renewable or non-renewable, and the location of where resources are found (urban versus rural) does not pertain to their renewability. Additionally, the cost of renewable versus non-renewable resources can vary based on a multitude of factors, and it is not accurate to state that renewable resources are always less expensive than non-renewable resources. Thus, the defining characteristic that renewable resources can be replenished naturally while