Which two resources present the most dangerous risks to the environment during their acquisition?

The acquisition of oil and coal presents significant environmental risks due to the processes involved in extracting and utilizing these resources. Oil extraction can lead to oil spills, habitat destruction, and pollution of marine and terrestrial ecosystems. The potential for catastrophic events like blowouts poses a serious threat to both surrounding environments and local communities. In addition, burning oil contributes to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change.

Coal mining practices, particularly mountaintop removal and strip mining, have profound effects on landscapes, biodiversity, and water quality. These methods can lead to deforestation, soil erosion, and water pollution, as toxic materials are often released into nearby waterways. Moreover, burning coal is a major source of carbon dioxide emissions and other harmful pollutants, which have far-reaching impacts on both human health and the ecosystem.

In contrast, alternatives like solar and geothermal energy are considered to have much lower environmental risks during their acquisition and utilization processes, as they generally involve less disruptive methods and contribute fewer pollutants to the atmosphere. Therefore, the risks associated with oil and coal extraction make them the most dangerous to the environment compared to the other energy sources listed.