How does energy drive the cycling of matter by thermal convection?

Answer 1

i.Energy released by radioactive decay in theEarth’s crust and mantle and residual thermal energy from the formation of the Earth provide energy that drives the flow of matter in the mantle.ii.Thermal energy is released at the surface of the Earth as new crust is formed and cooled.iii.The flow of matter by convection in the solid mantle and the sinking of cold, dense crust back into the mantle exert forces on crustal plates thatthen move, producing tectonic activity.iv.The flow of matter by convection in the liquid outer core generates the Earth’s magnetic field.v.Matter is cycled between the crust and the mantle at plate boundaries. Where plates are pushed together, cold crustal material sinks back into the mantle, and where plates are pulled apart, mantle material can be integratedinto the crust, forming new rock.