- Published: September 18, 2022
- Updated: September 18, 2022
- University / College: University of Calgary
- Level: Intermediate School
- Language: English
- Downloads: 34
Why is earth geologically active?
Unlike many other terrestrial planets, Earth is geologically active and this is one of the unique characteristic features of Earth. The phenomenon of the geological activity of Earth is related to the internal structure, composition and chemistry of Earth. We know that Earth is composed of several layers covering an extremely hot and molten mass known as Lava, which is so hot that it has maintained its heat ever since the Earth was formed. “ This heat causes mantle convection and keeps Earth’s lithosphere thin, ensuring active surface geology.” (Wesley, 2005).
(Wesley, 2005).
The relatively large size of the Earth among other terrestrial planets enables it to store a lot of energy/heat in its core which largely comprises iron and the temperature there can be even higher than that of the Sun. The resulting heat ultimately finds its way out through the movement of the tectonic plates thereby resulting in the Earth’s geological activity.