Question

Why do more hydrothermal resources exist in the western regions of the United States?

1) Western states experience more wildfires than eastern states.
2) The western region has far fewer trees, which leads to higher wind production.
3) Lack of groundwater and extended drought has reduced the number of vents.
4) Geological processes contributed to the formation of vents in that region.

Answer 1

More hydrothermal resources exist in the western United States due to the region's tectonic activity, which creates geothermal vents necessary for such resources.

Option. 4. Geological processes contributed to the formation of vents in that region is correct statement.

Step-by-step explanation:

The reason why more hydrothermal resources exist in the western regions of the United States is due to the area's geological processes. This region is very tectonically active, which has contributed to the formation of vents that are necessary for geothermal activity.

The Western U.S. includes geologically diverse provinces such as the Rocky Mountains, the Coastal Pacific Mountain System, Interior Plateaus, and the extensional Basin and Range. These geologic features are the result of tectonic movements that can provide pathways for magma and hot fluids to rise to the surface, creating the necessary conditions for geothermal sites like geysers and hot springs, hence the prevalence of hydrothermal resources in this area.