Beneath the surface of our seemingly solid planet lies a world of intense heat and pressure. This internal energy, the driving force behind endogenic processes, shapes the Earth from within, creating dramatic landscapes and influencing everything from volcanoes to earthquakes. The Source of the Heat The Earth's internal heat comes from two primary sources: Radioactive deca y: Radioactive elements like uranium, thorium, and potassium decay within the Earth's core and mantle, releasing heat energy. This process is like a tiny, continuous nuclear reactor, providing a steady source of internal heat. Residual heat : From the Earth's formation billions of years ago, some heat remains trapped within the planet's core. This leftover heat from the planet's initial fiery birth continues to contribute to the Earth's internal temperature. The Earth's Layered Structure The Earth's internal heat is unevenly distributed, creating distinct layers with varying ...
