What physical state is coal when it is extracted from the ground?

Coal is classified as a solid when it is extracted from the ground due to its physical structure and composition. It is made up of carbon-rich materials, along with various minerals and moisture, that have formed over millions of years from the remains of ancient plant life under conditions of heat and pressure. The solid state of coal is crucial for its usage as a fuel source in energy production, as it needs to maintain structural integrity to be mined, transported, and burned effectively in power generation.

In contrast, other physical states such as liquid or gas do not apply to coal. When we think of resources extracted from the Earth, oil is an example of a liquid, while natural gas is a gaseous state. Plasma represents a state of matter found at extremely high temperatures and is not relevant in the context of extracting coal.