What is coal and where is it found?

Answer 1

It has been estimated that there are over 847 billion tonnes of proven coal reserves worldwide. This means that there is enough coal to last us over 130 years at current rates of production. Coal is located worldwide - it can be found on every continent in over 70 countries, with the biggest reserves in the USA, Russia, China and India. All fossil fuels will eventually run out and it is essential that we use them as efficiently as possible. Coal reserves could be extended still further through a number of developments including: the discovery of new reserves through ongoing and improved exploration activities; advances in mining techniques, which will allow previously inaccessible reserves to be reached. Additionally, significant improvements continue to be made in how efficiently coal is used so that more energy can be generated from each tonne of coal produced.

How is Coal Found?

Coal reserves are discovered through exploration activities. The process usually involves creating a geological map of the area, then carrying out geochemical and geophysical surveys, followed by exploration drilling. This allows an accurate picture of the area to be developed.

The area will only ever become a mine if it is large enough and of sufficient quality that the coal can be economically recovered. Once this has been confirmed, mining operations begin.

Answer 2

Coal is a fossil fuel that forms from the remains of plants that lived millions of years ago. It is predominantly found underground in coal deposits located in various countries around the world, including the United States, China, India, and Australia.