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)heat transfer between the earth's interior and the surface of the earth
D)swirling movements of the molten iron particles in the outer core

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The lateral motions of Earth's lithospheric plates are driven by the heat transfer between the Earth's interior and the surface of the Earth. This heat transfer creates convection currents in the mantle, which drag the lithospheric plates along with them. The other options, such as the gravitational attractive forces of the Sun and Moon, electrical and magnetic fields in the inner core, and swirling movements of the molten iron particles in the outer core may have an effect on Earth's geology and some surface features, but they do not directly drive the motion of tectonic plates.

Which of the Following Energy Sources Is Thought to Drive