What are the main types of fossil fuels, and how do coal, petroleum (oil), and natural gas form from organic matter through processes such as burial, heat, pressure, and geological time scales, providing valuable energy resources for electricity generation, transportation, and industrial applications?

Fossil fuels are hydrocarbon-based energy resources formed from the remains of ancient organic matter over millions of years. Coal forms from the accumulation and compaction of plant debris in swampy environments, undergoing transformation into coal through heat and pressure. Petroleum (oil) originates from the burial and decomposition of marine microorganisms in sedimentary basins, where heat and pressure convert organic matter into crude oil. Natural gas forms under similar conditions but at higher temperatures and pressures, typically in association with petroleum deposits. These fossil fuels are valuable energy resources used for electricity generation, transportation, and various industrial applications.