Natural resources contribute to the wealth of citizens by:

Natural resources play a crucial role in the economic wealth of a nation by supplying raw materials that are essential for manufacturing industries and facilitating trade. When a country has an abundance of natural resources such as minerals, forests, water, and fossil fuels, these resources can be extracted and processed into finished goods that are then sold domestically and internationally.

The availability of raw materials allows industries to produce a wide range of products, which can lead to job creation, increase in national output, and generate revenue through exports. As countries engage in trade, they enhance their economic positions by attracting foreign investments that seek to utilize these raw materials. This overall dynamic not only strengthens the economy but also improves the standard of living for citizens as jobs are created and economic opportunities expand.

The other answer choices do not directly relate to the fundamental role natural resources play in economic wealth. Jobs in the technology sector may not be directly dependent on natural resources, foreign investments can occur for various reasons beyond just resources, and an increasing population does not inherently equate to wealth without corresponding economic development and resource utilization.