2006-09-19 01:07:30 · 5 answers · asked by Brandon G 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Geography
Earth's internal heat, which powers the convective flow below the crust that drives plate motion. The internal heat comes from decay of long-lived radioactive isotopes, primarily those of potassium, thorium and uranium (see ref.).
2006-09-19 01:34:29 · answer #1 · answered by kirchwey 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Likely the radioactive decay of nuclides with extremely long half lives that provide heat energy deep within the earth (with no place to go!) prevents the earth from cooling and freezing solid. Wegner (who discovered tectonics) believed that the moon's gravitational attraction promoted movements in the crust. There is a tide within the crust (similar to the ocean). Others believe that magma moves (circulates) like tomato soup in a pot on the stove.
2006-09-19 08:30:50 · answer #2 · answered by Kes 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Interior global warming
2006-09-20 15:01:39 · answer #3 · answered by Amphibolite 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Friction and gravity.
2006-09-19 11:45:23 · answer #4 · answered by btsmith_y 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
lava flow in the mantle
2006-09-19 08:11:00 · answer #5 · answered by KingRichard 6 · 0⤊ 2⤋