What drives convection cycles in the asthenosphere

Answer 1

The primary driving force behind convection cycles in the asthenosphere is the heat generated by the Earth's core. The radioactive decay of elements within the Earth's core generates a significant amount of heat, which causes the mantle to become hot and less dense. This hot, less dense material rises towards the Earth's surface, where it cools and becomes more dense, causing it to sink back into the mantle. This continuous cycle of rising and sinking material drives convection currents in the asthenosphere. Additionally, the movement of tectonic plates also plays a role in driving convection cycles in the asthenosphere, as it creates pressure differences that can influence the flow of mantle material.