Which of the following energy sources is thought to drive the lateral motions of Earth's lithospheric plates?
A) heat transfer between Earth's interior and the surface of Earth
B) electrical and magnetic fields localized in the inner core
C) gravitational attractive forces of the Sun and Moon
D) swirling movements of the molten iron particles in the outer core

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The driving force behind the lateral motions of Earth's lithospheric plates is thought to be the heat transfer between Earth's interior and the surface. This process, known as convection, creates currents in the mantle that carry the plates on top of them.

Which of the Following Energy Sources Is Thought to Drive