The systems of earth have both internal and external sources of energy, which of the following our internal sources of earth energy

one fusion retracts between hydrogen atoms in earth core
to the decay of earth radioactive isotopes
Three the gravitational energy from earth original formation
Four heat that is degraded when water molecules spontaneously split in earth oceans
A.) one and four only
B.) 1, two and three only
C.) two and four only
D.) two and three only

1 answer

To evaluate which options represent internal sources of Earth's energy, let's analyze each choice:

  1. Fusion reactions between hydrogen atoms in Earth's core: This is not a typical source of energy for Earth. The core consists mainly of iron and nickel, and does not undergo fusion like in stars (e.g., the Sun). So, this is not considered an internal source of energy for Earth.

  2. Decay of Earth's radioactive isotopes: This is a well-known internal source of energy. The decay process releases heat that contributes to geothermal energy.

  3. Gravitational energy from Earth's original formation: The energy from Earth's formation (gravitational potential energy) is also considered an internal source as it contributes to the heat within the Earth.

  4. Heat that is degraded when water molecules spontaneously split in Earth's oceans: This process, generally involving the splitting of water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen (electrolysis), does not significantly contribute to Earth's internal energy. It's more related to surface chemical processes than geological processes.

Based on this analysis, the internal sources of Earth's energy are primarily options 2 and 3. Therefore, the correct answer is:

D.) two and three only.