What causes convection currents in the Earth’s magma?
A. atmospheric movements, like high winds and hurricanes
B. the presence of a lot of liquid water on Earth’s surface
C. the temperature difference between the core and outer layers of Earth
D. human-caused changes to Earth’s surface
The correct answer is C. the temperature difference between the core and outer layers of Earth.
Convection currents in the Earth's magma are caused by the temperature difference between the core and outer layers of the Earth. The Earth's core is significantly hotter than its outer layers. This temperature difference creates a convection cycle, where molten rock from the hot core rises towards the surface, cools down as it approaches the surface, and then sinks back towards the core. This cycle of rising and sinking material sets up convection currents within the Earth's magma.
To determine the correct answer, one would need to understand the concept of convection currents and its relationship with the Earth's magma. By understanding that the temperature difference between the core and outer layers drives the movement of molten rock within the Earth, one can eliminate options A, B, and D, as they do not directly relate to the cause of convection currents in the magma. Therefore, the correct answer is C.