Earth's geothermal gradient is the rate of temperature change incurred by ________.
A)increasing altitude in the atmosphere
B)increasing depth at ocean trenches
C)traversing from either pole toward the equator
D)traversing down within Earth's interior

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Earth's geothermal gradient is the rate of temperature change incurred by traversing down within Earth's interior. As one goes deeper into the Earth's interior, the temperature increases by an average of 1°C for every 33 meters (or 100 feet) of depth. This phenomenon occurs due to the radioactive decay of elements within the Earth's mantle and core.

Earth's Geothermal Gradient Is the Rate of Temperature Change Incurred