Question

Geothermal energy is obtained by using the heat stored in the Earth’s interior to heat up water, which is brought back to the surface as steam. The steam is used to drive an electric generator. What is the source of heat for geothermal energy? A) Earth's internal heat is thermal energy generated from underground geysers. B) Earth's internal heat is thermal energy generated from molten rock under great pressure. C) Earth's internal heat is thermal energy generated from radioactive decay and molten rock. D) Earth's internal heat is thermal energy generated from radioactive decay and continual heat loss from Earth's formation.

Answer 1

D) Earth's internal heat is thermal energy generated from radioactive decay and continual heat loss from Earth's formation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The geothermal energy of the Earth's crust originates from the original formation of the planet and from the radioactive decay of materials. The geothermal gradient, which is the difference in temperature between the core of the planet and its surface, drives a continuous conduction of thermal energy in the form of heat from the core to the surface.

Answer 2

Magma heats nearby rocks and underground aquifers. Hot water can be released through geysers, hot springs, steam vents, underwater hydrothermal vents, and mud pots. These are all sources of geothermal energy. Their heat can be captured and used directly for heat, or their steam can be used to generate electricity.

Step-by-step explanation:

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