Which fossil fuels are commonly burned in thermal power stations?

The correct answer highlights that coal and gas are the primary fossil fuels utilized in thermal power stations. When burned, these fuels release energy in the form of heat, which is then used to convert water into steam. This steam drives turbines connected to generators, ultimately producing electricity.

Coal has been historically one of the most common sources of energy for power generation due to its abundance and high energy content. Natural gas, on the other hand, has gained popularity in more recent years because it burns cleaner than coal, emitting less carbon dioxide and more efficient energy output.

The other options do not fit the criteria for fuels typically burned in thermal power stations. Oil does have a presence in energy production but is not as prevalent as coal and gas in this context. Ethanol is a biofuel and is not derived from fossil sources. Wood and biomass represent renewable sources of energy rather than fossil fuels, while nuclear and solar energy represent alternative energy generation methods that do not involve burning fossil fuels at all.