The element that does not move thermal energy through convection currents on Earth is: c. molten rock.
a. the ocean: Warm surface water expands and rises, while colder water sinks. This circulation pattern creates large-scale ocean currents that play a crucial role in distributing heat around the globe.
b. the atmosphere: Uneven heating of the atmosphere leads to differences in density, causing hot air to rise and cool air to sink. This movement generates wind patterns that move thermal energy across the planet.
c. molten rock: Though hot and fluid, molten rock is confined within the Earth's mantle and crust. While it conducts heat within the Earth, it doesn't directly participate in convection currents that involve the surface or atmosphere.
Therefore, while the other options all play significant roles in Earth's thermal energy transfer through convection, molten rock remains confined within the Earth's interior and doesn't contribute to surface-based convection currents.
Complete question:
Which of the following does NOT move thermal energy
through convection currents on Earth?
a the ocean
b the atmosphere
€ molten rock