Science QuestionsBy: Emma L.

2a DefiningWhat is a convection current?

The movement of a fluid, caused by differences in temperature, that transfers heat from one part of the fluid to another.

2b Relating Cause and EffectIn general, what happens to the of a fluid as it becomes hotter?

In general when the density of a fluid as it becomes hotter, the fluid as it becomes less dense and then rises.

3aIdentifyingName two layers of Earth in which convection currents take place.

Two layers of the Earth where convection currents take place are the mantle (asthenosphere especially because, it’s softer) and the outer core (both are relativly soft and can move but, very slowly).

3b Relating Cause and EffectWhat causes convection currents in the mantle?

The great hear and pressure in the mantle cause solid mantle rock to flow very slowly. When the warmer, less dense, hot rock rises to the surface it slowly cools and sinks down-creating a current.

3cPredictingWhat will happen to the convection currents in the mantle if Earth’s in the mantle if Earth’s interior eventually cools down? Explain.

If the Earth’s interior eventually cools down, the convection currents will stop. If there is no heat creating less dense, hot rock, then the whole cycle will stop because, there will be no way for the hot rock to rise on its own.