Processes such as Earth's plates floating on the mantle and igneous rock forming from molten magma are driven by convection currents below Earth's surface. What is the source of energy that fuels this movement?

Answer 1

The source of energy that fuels the movement of convection currents below Earth's surface is primarily the heat generated from the radioactive decay of isotopes within the Earth's core. This heat is continuously produced and transferred to the surrounding rock, generating thermal energy. The hotter material becomes less dense, causing it to rise towards the surface, while the cooler material sinks back down in a continuous cycle. This movement of heat and material drives the convection currents, which in turn control the movement of Earth's tectonic plates and the formation of igneous rocks.