As an energy sector expert, I am well-versed in the nuances of various energy sources. Let's delve into the topic of fossil fuels and biomass energy to address the question at hand.

Fossil fuels, which include coal, oil, and natural gas, are formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals that have been subjected to heat and pressure over millions of years. These fuels are non-renewable resources, meaning they cannot be replenished on a human timescale once they are depleted. When burned, they release carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing significantly to climate change.

Fossil fuels are not considered biomass energy. The term "biomass" refers to organic materials, such as plants and waste, that can be used to produce energy. Biomass is a renewable resource because it can be replenished through natural processes, such as plant growth. The cycle is sustainable as long as the rate of harvesting does not exceed the rate of regrowth.

The chemical composition of coal, which is often approximated as CH, indicates that it is primarily composed of carbon and hydrogen. This composition is a result of the transformation of biomass over geological timescales. However, the process that turns biomass into coal is not a cycle that can be replicated within the timescale of human activity, which is why coal is classified as a non-renewable resource.

Natural gas, primarily composed of methane (CH4), is often considered the cleanest fossil fuel in terms of the amount of CO2 emitted per unit of energy produced. When compared to coal and oil, natural gas releases less CO2 for the same amount of energy. However, it is still a fossil fuel and not a form of biomass energy.

Biomass energy is considered a low carbon fuel because the carbon released during combustion is part of a closed carbon cycle. Plants absorb CO2 from the atmosphere as they grow, and when they are used for energy, the CO2 is released back into the atmosphere. This cycle can be sustainable if managed properly, ensuring that new growth offsets the amount of biomass harvested.

In conclusion, while fossil fuels are derived from ancient biomass, they are not classified as biomass energy due to their non-renewable nature and the long geological processes involved in their formation. Biomass energy, on the other hand, is a renewable resource that can be part of a sustainable cycle, assuming it is managed with consideration for environmental impacts.

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Fossil fuels release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Coal has the approximate chemical formula CH. ... Natural gas is the best fossil fuel in terms of energy output per unit carbon dioxide emitted. Biomass is renewable because a new crop can be grown after each harvest, and biomass is a low carbon fuel.read more >>