Which of the following best describes a finite resource?

A finite resource is defined as a resource that exists in limited quantities and cannot be replenished once it has been used up. This means that once the supply is exhausted, it cannot be generated or replaced within a human timescale. This definition aligns perfectly with the chosen answer, which indicates that such a resource can only be used once and is in limited supply.

For example, fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas are finite resources; they take millions of years to form and cannot be renewed on a human timescale. As they are consumed for energy, their availability diminishes, leading to potential shortages.

The other options describe different types of resources that do not fit the definition of a finite resource. Renewable resources can be replenished naturally year after year, abundant resources are readily available and not limited, and recyclable resources can be processed and reused multiple times, allowing for sustainability. Therefore, the description of a finite resource as something that can only be used once and is in limited supply is accurate and provides a clear understanding of the concept.