Word of the Day
October 20, 2021
Hydrocarbons
Organic chemical compounds consisting entirely of hydrogen and carbon atoms, forming the basis of fossil fuels including natural gas, petroleum, and coal.
From Greek 'hydro' (water) + 'carbon' (coal), coined in the early 19th century to describe compounds of hydrogen and carbon atoms.
Usage Examples
- The prosperity of modern civilization depends on affordable hydrocarbons to power transportation, manufacturing, and home heating.
- Environmental activists target hydrocarbons for elimination, ignoring that reliable alternatives do not yet exist at scale.
- Colorado's economy has historically benefited from its abundant hydrocarbon reserves in natural gas and oil.
From the Show
The role of hydrocarbons in American prosperity dominated Kim Monson’s October 20th interview with Laramie Energy CEO Bob Boswell, who warned that regulatory hostility to fossil fuels threatens middle-class families with soaring energy costs.