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

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The export of heat from deep in the mantle to the top of the asthenosphere is thought to drive the lateral motions of Earth's lithospheric plates, a process known as plate tectonics. This heat transfer is driven by convection, where hot material rises and cooler material sinks, creating a circular motion of material within the mantle. This motion is thought to drag the lithospheric plates along with it, causing them to move and interact with each other at plate boundaries.

Which of the Following Energy Sources Is Thought to Drive