During mantle convection, heat from the earth's core causes material in the mantle to expand and move upward. When it reaches the top, it _____.

Question

cools, moves to the side, and sinks, making a circular pattern
gets hotter at the surface from the Sun's rays
cools and sinks, making a vertical pattern
is released into the atmosphere

Answer 1

During mantle convection, heat from the Earth's core causes material in the mantle to expand and move upward. When it reaches the top, it cools, moves to the side, and sinks, making a circular pattern. This process is part of the convection currents that contribute to tectonic plate movements and various geological activities.