Geography
Why is coal often used near the source of its mining whereas mineral oil is transported to great distances?
Answer
Coal is a bulky material and its transportation is difficult and costly. Secondly, coal is not a hard but a soft mineral. If not transported in a proper way, it may get crushed and reduced to ash. This results in reduction of the weight of coal. Hence it is used near the source of mining.
Oil is transported to greater distances through pipelines which is a cheaper and easier means of transport.