As an energy expert, I have a deep understanding of the global energy landscape. When we talk about the most used energy source, it's important to consider the global context, as energy consumption patterns can vary significantly from one region to another. However, if we are to generalize, we can say that fossil fuels have been the dominant energy source for the past century and continue to hold this position today.

Fossil fuels, which include petroleum, natural gas, and coal, have been the backbone of the global energy system due to their high energy density and ease of transportation and storage. According to the statistics from 2016, these three major fossil fuels accounted for the majority of a nation's energy production, with natural gas leading the way at 33%, followed by petroleum at 28%, and coal at 17%. This distribution highlights the significant role that fossil fuels play in meeting the world's energy demands.

Petroleum, also known as crude oil, is widely used for transportation fuels, such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel, as well as for the production of various petrochemicals. It is a versatile energy source that powers vehicles, ships, and aircraft, and is integral to modern transportation infrastructure.

Natural gas is another significant player in the energy sector. It is primarily used for electricity generation, heating, and cooking. Natural gas is favored for its cleaner combustion compared to coal and petroleum, which makes it an attractive option for countries looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Coal, while being the dirtiest of the three in terms of emissions, still holds a substantial share in the energy mix, especially in countries with abundant coal reserves and limited access to cleaner energy sources. Coal is primarily used for electricity generation in power plants.

Despite the dominance of fossil fuels, there has been a notable increase in the use of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydro, and biomass. These sources accounted for 12% of the energy production in 2016, and their share is expected to grow as technology advances and the push for cleaner energy intensifies.

Nuclear electric power also plays a role in the energy mix, contributing 10% in 2016. Nuclear power is a low-carbon energy source that provides a stable baseload of electricity, but it comes with its own set of challenges, including the management of radioactive waste and public perception issues.

In conclusion, while the most used energy source globally remains to be fossil fuels, there is a clear trend towards diversification and the adoption of cleaner energy sources. The future of energy is likely to be more sustainable and less reliant on non-renewable resources.

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The three major fossil fuels--petroleum, natural gas, and coal--accounted for most of the nation's energy production in 2016:Natural gas--33%Petroleum (crude oil and natural gas plant liquids)--28%Coal--17%Renewable energy--12%Nuclear electric power--10%read more >>