What defines a finite resource?

A finite resource is characterized by having a limited supply, meaning that once it is consumed or used, it cannot be replenished within a human timeframe. Fossil fuels serve as a prime example of finite resources — they take millions of years to form and are being depleted much faster than they can regenerate. This limitation underscores the challenges and considerations in sustainable resource management, as once finite resources are exhausted, they cannot be relied upon for future needs.

The other options imply characteristics of resources that either can be replenished quickly or are available in unlimited quantities, which does not align with the definition of a finite resource. For instance, resources that are easily replenished or produced constantly from natural processes can be considered renewable, while those available in unlimited quantities often refer to abundant resources, which also do not fit the finite category.