What term describes coal, oil, and gas formed from dead plants and animals?

The term that describes coal, oil, and gas formed from dead plants and animals is "fossil fuel." Fossil fuels are created over millions of years through the decomposition of organic material under layers of sediment, where heat and pressure transform the organic remains into carbon-rich energy sources. These fuels are primarily composed of carbon and hydrogens and are used extensively for energy generation, transportation, and heating.

Understanding fossil fuels is vital because they have been the primary source of energy for industrial societies and continue to play a significant role in global energy consumption. In contrast, the other terms do not accurately encapsulate the specific nature of coal, oil, and gas. Mineral resources refer to naturally occurring substances mined for economic value, renewable energy pertains to energy sources that are naturally replenished, and natural gas is a specific type of fossil fuel, not the broader category that includes coal and oil.