Which increases the amount of thermal energy on Earth according to scientists?

Question

There is more convection occurring on Earth.
There is more convection occurring on Earth.

The sun has grown brighter.
The sun has grown brighter.

An increase in greenhouse gases has trapped heat.
An increase in greenhouse gases has trapped heat.

More heat from Earth’s core is being conducted to the surface.

Answer 1

According to scientists, the statement that most directly increases the amount of thermal energy on Earth is:

An increase in greenhouse gases has trapped heat.

This is primarily due to the greenhouse effect, where increased concentrations of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane trap more heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to an overall increase in thermal energy.

While the other statements might have some relevance in different contexts, the significant and well-documented impact on Earth's thermal energy balance comes from the increase in greenhouse gases.