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Natural Resources

Definition

Natural resources are materials or substances such as minerals, forests, water, and fertile land that occur naturally in the environment and can be used for economic gain.

Analogy

Imagine natural resources as ingredients needed for baking a cake. Without these ingredients (like flour, sugar, eggs), you wouldn't be able to bake your cake (or run an economy).

Related terms

Renewable Resources: These are natural resources that can replenish themselves if managed properly - like sunlight or wind energy.

Non-renewable Resources: These are resources that do not renew themselves at a sufficient rate for sustainable use - like coal or oil.

Conservation: This is the careful management of natural resources with the goal of preventing waste and protecting them for future generations.



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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.