Which mechanism provides heat to Earth's interior?
A) gravitational contraction
B) meteorite bombardment
C) radioactive decay
D) subduction
E) core pressurization

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Radioactive decay provides the heat that drives Earth's interior processes. As unstable isotopes, such as uranium and thorium, undergo spontaneous decay, they release energy in the form of heat, which is transferred to the surrounding rock. This process generates the heat that is responsible for driving mantle convection, plate tectonics, and volcanic activity.

Which Mechanism Provides Heat to Earth's Interior