Which of the following best defines "renewable resources"?

"Renewable resources" are defined as natural resources that can be replenished naturally over time. This means that they can be used, but they also have the capacity to regenerate and be available for future use. Examples of renewable resources include solar energy, wind energy, wood from forests, and water, as long as they are managed sustainably.

When considering this definition, it becomes clear that the other choices do not accurately characterize renewable resources. The first option describes resources that are permanently exhausted after use, which refers to non-renewable resources. The third option states that resources are finite and cannot be replaced, which again pertains to non-renewable resources, like coal or oil. The fourth choice indicates resources derived from fossil fuels, which are also non-renewable. Thus, the description of renewable resources as those that can regenerate aligns clearly with the fundamental principles of sustainability and environmental science.