Why is the inside of the Earth still hot?
A) Because the outer layers have prevented the escape of heat trapped during the planet's initial formation, and no new heat has been formed.
B) Because the decay of large radioactive elements is creating heat in the Earth's inner layers.
C) Because a nuclear process like that found in stars is at work in Earth's interior.
D) Because huge quantities of oil and natural gas occasionally burn deep within the Earth.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The decay of large radioactive elements like uranium and thorium is responsible for generating heat in the Earth's inner layers. This heat has been building up since the planet's formation and is still being generated, making the inside of the Earth hot.

Why Is the Inside of the Earth Still Hot