Convection currents in the Earth’s mantle are the continuous flow of molten rock beneath the Earth’s crust caused by the heat from the planet’s core. These currents occur because heated material becomes less dense and rises, while cooler, denser material sinks. This process creates a cycle that not only plays a crucial role in the movement of tectonic plates but also contributes to volcanic activity and earthquakes.
When the magma close to the core is heated, it rises toward the crust. As it reaches the upper mantle and begins to cool, it loses heat and becomes denser, causing it to sink back down toward the core. This cyclical movement allows heat to be transferred from the interior of the Earth to its surface, aiding in the planet’s geological activity. Consequently, convection currents are fundamental to understanding how the Earth’s surface is shaped and how the dynamic processes of geology work.