Which of the following describes a nonrenewable resource?

A nonrenewable resource is characterized by its inability to be replenished quickly once it is consumed. This is particularly true for fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, which take millions of years to form and cannot be replaced within a human timeframe. When a nonrenewable resource is depleted, it is effectively gone for an extended period, leading to concerns about sustainability and energy security.

In contrast, resources that can be replenished quickly or are abundant often belong to renewable categories, such as solar energy or wind energy, which naturally regenerate. Therefore, the correct choice highlights the significant distinction between resources based on their availability and renewal rates.