The fundamental source of energy that drives Earth's surface systems--the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere--is:
A) the Sun.
B) the Earth's interior heat.
C) meteorite impacts.
D) the wind.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Sun is the primary source of energy that drives the Earth's surface systems, providing light, heat, and radiation that are necessary for life and the functioning of these systems. The energy from the Sun drives the climate, the water cycle, photosynthesis in plants, and ocean currents, among other important processes. While the Earth's interior heat and meteorite impacts play important roles in shaping the Earth's surface, they do not provide the sustained energy input that the Sun does. The wind is also an important energy source, but it is ultimately driven by the differential heating of the Earth's surface by the Sun.

The Fundamental Source of Energy That Drives Earth's Surface Systems--The