radioactive decay contributes to earths internal heat. which statement best explains this?\n1. radioactive…

radioactive decay contributes to earths internal heat. which statement best explains this?\n1. radioactive decay cools the core by absorbing heat.\n2. radioactive decay moves heat by convection only.\n3. radioactive decay occurs only in the crust and has no effect on the mantle.\n4. radioactive decay is one source of thermal heat which contributes to tectonic plates movement

radioactive decay contributes to earths internal heat. which statement best explains this?\n1. radioactive decay cools the core by absorbing heat.\n2. radioactive decay moves heat by convection only.\n3. radioactive decay occurs only in the crust and has no effect on the mantle.\n4. radioactive decay is one source of thermal heat which contributes to tectonic plates movement

Answer

Brief Explanations:

  • The first option is incorrect because radioactive decay releases heat, not absorbs it, so it does not cool the core.
  • The second option is incorrect because radioactive decay generates heat, it does not move heat via convection (convection is a heat transfer method for existing heat).
  • The third option is incorrect because radioactive decay occurs in the mantle and core as well, not just the crust, and it does heat the mantle.
  • The fourth option is correct because radioactive decay is a natural source of thermal energy in Earth's interior, and this heat drives the convection currents that move tectonic plates.

Answer:

D. Radioactive decay is one source of thermal heat which contributes to Tectonic Plates movement