1. Coal Herb Thomas Different types of coal have different uses: Steam coal Coking coal

2. How It’s Used Coal has many important uses worldwide. Not only does coal provide electricity, it is also an essential fuel for steel and cement production, and other industrial activities. It is formed from vegetation. Environmental laws and modern technologies have greatly reduced the impact on the environment from the production and consumption of coal

3. Coal is also an essential ingredient in the production of specialist products: –Activated carbon - used in filters for water and air purification and in kidney dialysis machines. –Carbon fiber - an extremely strong but light weight reinforcement material used in construction, mountain bikes and tennis rackets. –Silicon metal - used to produce silicones and silanes, which are in turn used to make lubricants, water repellents, resins, cosmetics, hair shampoos and toothpastes.