Coal is used to generate electricity by burning it. The heat is then used to run a heat engine, which utilizes water steam to turn electric turbines. Coal was the fuel that started the industrial revolution, and it's use continues to grow today. Coal-fired electricity production accounts for more electricity than any other fuel source.

Energy density

The average energy density of coal used today is much lower than at the start of its use. The low energy density means train car loads of coal are burned each day at a midsized coal power facility. The main waste byproduct of this…

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