Question

Much of the thermal energy within the Earth comes from atoms that decay. What is another major source of thermal energy within the

Earth?
A. gravitational energy left over from the formation of the Earth
B. thermal energy from the decay of dead plants and animals
c. thermal energy trapped by clouds and water vapor in the atmosphere
D. thermal energy absorbed by the Sun at the Earth's crust

Answer 1

The major sources of thermal energy within the Earth are gravitational energy left over from the Earth's formation and the radioactive decay of elements in the Earth's crust.

Step-by-step explanation:

One major source of thermal energy within the Earth is the gravitational energy left over from the formation of the Earth. This energy was converted into thermal energy as pieces fell into the gravitational field of the Earth. Another major source is the radioactive decay of elements such as uranium, thorium, and potassium in the Earth's crust. The energy released from these decays adds to the thermal energy within the Earth's core.