Which can be excluded from the list of events caused by the flow of thermal energy inside the Earth?
A. Volcanic eruptions
B. Earthquakes
C. Valley formations
D. Thunderstorms
D. Thunderstorms
D. Thunderstorms can be excluded from the list of events caused by the flow of thermal energy inside the Earth. Thunderstorms are primarily caused by the interaction of warm and cold air masses in the atmosphere, not by the flow of thermal energy within the Earth's interior.
To determine which events can be excluded from the list of events caused by the flow of thermal energy inside the Earth, we need to understand the processes associated with thermal energy.
Thermal energy is generated from the Earth's interior due to the decay of radioactive elements and the residual heat from its formation. This energy causes various geological phenomena to occur. Let's examine each event listed and determine if they are caused by the flow of thermal energy:
A. Volcanic eruptions: These are caused by the movement of magma from the Earth's mantle to the surface. The flow of thermal energy inside the Earth plays a significant role in generating the heat that melts the rocks and causes volcanic activity. Therefore, volcanic eruptions are directly related to the flow of thermal energy inside the Earth and should not be excluded.
B. Earthquakes: Earthquakes occur when there is a sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust, resulting in seismic waves. While thermal energy is not the primary cause of earthquakes, it can indirectly contribute to the occurrence of earthquakes. The movement of tectonic plates, which is influenced by thermal convection currents beneath the Earth's surface, can cause stress and lead to seismic activity. Therefore, earthquakes are also related to the flow of thermal energy and should not be excluded.
C. Valley formations: Valley formations, such as canyons and river valleys, are primarily a result of tectonic activity and erosion processes. While thermal energy is involved in processes like weathering, it is not directly responsible for the formation of valleys. Therefore, valley formations can be excluded from the list of events caused solely by the flow of thermal energy inside the Earth.
D. Thunderstorms: Thunderstorms are atmospheric phenomena that occur due to the mixing of warm and cold air masses, moisture, and other atmospheric conditions. They are not directly related to the flow of thermal energy within the Earth. Thunderstorms are caused by atmospheric dynamics and should be excluded from the list.
In conclusion, valley formations (option C) can be excluded from the list of events caused by the flow of thermal energy inside the Earth.