32. Ruth thinks the Sun is the driving force behind igneous rock formation because the Sun's energy heats the ground causing the heat needed for rocks to meit. Explain why you agree or disagree with Ruth.

I disagree with Ruth's explanation regarding the formation of igneous rocks. While the Sun is indeed a significant source of energy for many Earth's surface processes, it is not the primary driving force behind the formation of igneous rocks. Here's why: **Source of Heat for Igneous Rocks:** - **Internal Earth Heat:** Igneous rocks form from the cooling and solidification of magma or lava. The primary source of this heat is the Earth's internal heat, which originates from residual heat from the planet's formation and the radioactive decay of elements within the Earth's mantle and core. **Role of the Sun:** - **Surface Heating:** The Sun's energy primarily affects the Earth's surface, driving processes such as weathering, erosion, and the water cycle. While solar heating can warm the ground's surface, the temperatures achieved through solar energy are insufficient to melt rocks and form magma. **Geological Processes:** - **Plate Tectonics:** The movement of tectonic plates and volcanic activity, which are closely linked to the formation of igneous rocks, are governed by internal Earth dynamics rather than external solar energy. **Temperature Requirements:** - **Magma Formation:** The temperatures required to melt rocks and form magma typically exceed 1,000°C (1,832°F), which cannot be achieved by solar heating at the Earth's surface. Such high temperatures are maintained deep within the Earth's mantle and are necessary for the generation of magma. **Conclusion:** Ruth's assertion overlooks the critical role of the Earth's internal heat in the formation of igneous rocks. While the Sun plays a vital role in many surface-level geological processes, it does not provide the necessary energy to melt rocks and generate magma. Therefore, igneous rock formation is primarily driven by the Earth's internal thermal energy rather than solar heating.