Final answer:
Studying due to an interest in the topic exemplifies intrinsic motivation, which is motivation driven by internal gratification rather than external rewards.
Step-by-step explanation:
Studying because you like the topic is an illustration of intrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation is based on internal feelings of satisfaction and personal enjoyment. This type of motivation arises from within because you have a genuine interest in the subject matter and gain personal fulfillment from learning it.
In contrast, extrinsic motivation is driven by external factors like rewards, praise, or avoiding negative outcomes. If your motivation for studying were influenced by the desire to receive a good grade, earn a reward, or meet someone else's expectations, then it would be considered extrinsic.
This distinction is important in educational settings because higher intrinsic motivation is often associated with deep learning and better educational outcomes, whereas extrinsic motivation can sometimes undermine intrinsic interest in a topic, as evidenced by research on the overjustification effect.