How does convection cause the motion of plates that drives plate tectonics?
A) Convection blows the plates around the earth.
B) Cold, dense lithosphere sinks, while hot, low-density mantle rises to the surface at hot spots
C) Radiation of heat causes the plates to move, which in turn causes convection
D) Refraction of heat from the sun heats the plates, causing convection and the motion of the plates.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Convection occurs in the mantle due to the uneven heating caused by radioactive decay. Hot, low-density mantle rises, while cold, dense lithosphere sinks. This sinking of the lithosphere causes it to move, pulling the rest of the plate with it, which drives plate tectonics.

How Does Convection Cause the Motion of Plates That Drives