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The generally accepted theory for the formation of fossil fuels is that vegetable matter, dating back to the Carboniferous Period, became buried underground, and over time, with compression and heat in the absence of oxygen, it was transformed into the various fossil fuels, coal, petroleum, and natural gas. There is also one other theory which has some plausibility, which is that fossil fuels are much older than the Carboniferous Period, and are derived from the Earth's atmosphere, before the first appearance of green plants that produce oxygen. At a sufficiently early period in Earth's history, hydrocarbons may have been extremely abundant, just as they are in the outer solar system.

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Which a leading theory for the formation of fossil fuels?

organic matter


Which is a leading theory for the formation for fossil fuels?

organic matter


Is carbon dioxide released by fossil fuel formation?

No, formation of fossil fuels (coal, oil and natural gas) removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.Burning of fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide.


Does pressure have to do anything with fossil fuels?

Yes, pressure is a factor in the formation of fossil fuels (coal, oil and natural gas).


A leading theory for the formation of fossil fuels?

The leading theory for the formation of fossil fuels is that they were formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals buried deep underground over millions of years. The heat and pressure from the Earth's crust caused these organic materials to decompose and transform into coal, oil, and natural gas.


What happened to organisms that led to the formation of fossil fuels?

they decayed


What is the leading theory of the formation of fossil fuels?

Fossil fuels are believed to have formed from the underground heating and compression of thick layers of dead vegetation formed many centuries ago. An example of this process can be seen from the formation of peat from layers of plant material beneath peat bogs. The release of methane from swamps is another example of the genral process.


Who is the leading supplier of fossil fuels?

Saudi Arabia


Which is a leading theory of the formation of the fossil fuels?

organic matter


What may occur when the burning of fossil fuels release gaseous nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere?

Burning fossil fuels can lead to pollution in the environment. Although fossil fuels can be useful, the burning of them should be reduced to preserve clean air.


Which is not a factor in the formation of a fossil fuels?

Temperature and pressure are not factors in the formation of fossil fuels. Fossil fuels are formed from organic matter, such as ancient plants and animals, that is buried under layers of sediment and undergoes chemical changes over millions of years to become coal, oil, or natural gas.


Is pressure a factor of a fossil fuel?

Pressure is not a factor in the formation of fossil fuels. Fossil fuels are primarily formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals that were buried under sedimentary layers over millions of years. The heat and compression from these layers transform the organic material into fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas.