The temperature within the Earth ______with depth because rocks are poor conductors of heat and they contain small amounts of radioactive elements that generate heat. This gradual change in temperature with depth is called the_______ .
A) increases, melting profile
B) increases, conductivity barrier
C) increases, geothermal gradient
D) decreases, crustal thermocline

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The temperature within the Earth increases with depth due to the poor conductivity of rocks and the presence of radioactive elements that generate heat. This gradual change in temperature with depth is known as the geothermal gradient.

The Temperature Within the Earth ______With Depth Because Rocks Are