Renewable Energy

Inexhaustible Resources: Examples, Definition, and Uses.

A Snapshot: Inexhaustible resources are those that have an infinite supply and are impossible to deplete, even when constantly exploited by people. Solar, wind, geothermal, water, soil, air, ocean waves, and tides are examples of such resources.

Inexhaustible Resources?


Nature has bestowed to mankind a wealth of natural resources. The exploitation of those resources contributes to our economy’s growth. Unfortunately, some of those natural resources are finite and may be depleted. However, there are some resources that are unlikely to be depleted, and they are referred to as inexhaustible resources.

Take a look at what the terms ‘resources’ and ‘inexhaustible’ mean to get a better understanding of inexhaustible resources.

Definition of ‘Resources’ and ‘Inexhaustible’

Resources are the sources from which value or benefit is derived. Labor, land, transportation, water, money, technology, and so forth are some examples.

Some resources are natural, while others are man-made. Natural resources exist without the need for human intervention. That is to say, they do not exist as a result of human activity. Coal, fossils, limestone, water, solar energy, biofuel, and a variety of other materials are examples. Some natural resources may be depleted, while others are thought to be endless.

What does the term “inexhaustible” mean? ‘Inexhaustible,’ according to Merriam Webster, simply means “something that cannot be used up” or “anything that cannot be worn out.”

Key Points: Resources are sources of value. Labor, land, transportation, water, finance, coal, air, and other resources are examples of resources. Something that cannot be used up or exhausted is said to be inexhaustible.

Definition of Inexhaustible Resources

Inexhaustible resources are resources that are thought to exist in an infinite supply and are impossible to exhaust. In other words, under any circumstance of use, inexhaustible resources are extremely unlikely to run out or become exhausted. Solar, wind, water, geothermal are examples.

Renewable resources are sometimes known as inexhaustible resources. However, not all renewable resources are inexhaustible. At the end of this post, you’ll find an explanation.

Consider some examples of endless resources and why they are referred regarded as such.

Key Points: Inexhaustible resources are those that, despite human exploitation, cannot be exhausted or depleted.

Examples of Inexhaustible Resources

  • Solar: Solar energy is produced by the sun. It is continuously produced by the sun, which shows no signs of tiredness. It is one of the natural resources that has been used from the beginning of time, although it appears to be underutilized. Solar energy can never be depleted, no matter how we use it. Solar energy will be generated until the sun ceases to exist.
  • Wind: When there is a difference in atmospheric pressure, air moves from the high-pressure area to the low-pressure area, causing the wind to blow. The wind is essentially a massive, voluminous movement of air. We can’t exhaust the air, according to all theoretical indications.
  • Water: This is a fundamental requirement for all living things. It is estimated to cover over 70% of the earth’s surface and can be found in rivers, oceans, and seas, among other places. It is also non-exhaustible because the quantity remains constant. It is recycled for reuse in numerous ways as it is utilized.
  • Geothermal energy: This energy is derived from the heat produced by the earth’s core. Only if there is no earth will this energy vanish.
  • Ocean wave and tides: A body of water that produces waves and tides is known as an ocean. Tides are caused by the earth’s movement and the moon’s gravity, whereas waves are caused by wind flowing across the ocean. They aren’t used nearly as much as other resources and can’t be depleted.
  • Atmosphere: This refers to the gaseous layers that surround planets. The earth’s atmosphere prevents potentially harmful solar rays from entering the planet. It does not appear to be exhaustible, but its quality may deteriorate.

Solar is the ultimate inexhaustible resource because it is a function of most inexhaustible energy resources like wind, water, geothermal, etc. So, as long as the sun exists, other inexhaustible energy resources will keep existing.

The amount and quality of these infinite resources differ depending on where you are on the planet. They’re also extremely versatile.

Key Points: Solar, wind, geothermal, water, ocean waves and tides, and the atmosphere are examples of inexhaustible resources.

Uses of Inexhaustible Resources

  • Generating electric power: Electricity can be generated via wind, water, or sun energy. Solar energy can be converted to electricity using solar panels; wind energy can be turned to electricity using wind turbines; and water may be used to generate electricity in hydroelectric power plants. Tides and waves are made possible by the water in seas. Electricity can also be generated from the waves and tides.
  • Transportation: Trains and other vehicles are now powered by solar energy. It relies on solar panels and batteries to operate, rather than gas or gasoline. They’re known as solar-powered cars, trains, and other vehicles. Water is also employed as a mode of transportation, with boats, ships, and canoes being examples.
  • Agricultural purpose: The importance of freshwater and sun energy in plant and animal growth cannot be overstated. They are some of the most important factors in photosynthesis. And it is this photosynthesis that results in the release of oxygen, which humans require.
  • Domestic purpose: Freshwater makes up less than 1% of the earth’s surface, despite the fact that water covers more than 70% of the planet’s surface. Freshwater can be used for household purposes by humans. Bathing, washing clothes, cooking, and many other home uses of freshwater are just a few examples. Its availability, however, varies depending on where you are on the planet.
  • Water pumping: Wind turbines can be utilized to pump water for domestic or agricultural purposes directly. Solar energy can also be used to pump water through the use of solar panels.

Key Points: Inexhaustible resources can be used for electricity generation, transportation, domestic and agricultural purposes.

Differences Between Inexhaustible Resources and Renewable Resources

Not all renewable resources are inexhaustible.

Inexhaustible resources can never be drained or exhausted under any circumstances, but renewable resources can be depleted but easily regenerated. In other words, renewable resources can be depleted if they are used more than they are provided, whereas inexhaustible resources will continue to supply even if they are exploited continuously. Solar and wind, for example, are limitless resources, but wood is only renewable.

As a result, while all inexhaustible resources are renewable, not all renewable resources are inexhaustible.

Key Points: Some renewable resources can be depleted but renewed, but all inexhaustible resources can never be depleted.


Frequently Asked Questions

Are all renewable resources inexhaustible?

No, not all renewable resources are inexhaustible. For example, wood is renewable but not inexhaustible.

Is hydroelectric power renewable or inexhaustible?

Hydroelectric power is both renewable and inexhaustible. Hydropower utilises the energy of water to produce electricity.
And water can’t be exhausted and is also renewable.

Note: Water is considered renewable because it isn’t non-renewable. The amount of water on earth remains the same. So, it actually doesn’t replenish itself.

Is geothermal energy inexhaustible?

Yes, it is inexhaustible. Geothermal energy is gotten from heat generated from the cores of the earth. The cores constantly produce this heat. So far the earth’s core exists, geothermal energy can’t be exhausted.

Is coal an inexhaustible resource?

Coal is not inexhaustible. Coal is a resource that is limited and will eventually get exhausted.

Is the air on earth an inexhaustible resource?

Yes, air is an inexhaustible resource. It contains various gases and particles that can’t be exhausted.

Moshood Sadiq

Moshood is a Power system maintenance engineer, who has educated college students on Physics and Mathematics. He currently helps design and install solar power systems. His passion for writing is geared towards educating others on energy and electrical power systems.

View Comments