Question

The geothermal gradient in the continental crust is 0.02 ⁰C/m. If the surface temperature is 25 ⁰C, the temperature at a depth of 18 km from the surface is ________ ⁰C. (In integer)

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 385

Calculating the Geothermal Temperature 

Step 1: Understanding the Formula

The geothermal temperature can be calculated using the formula:

\[ T = T_{\text{surface}} + (\text{gradient} \times \text{depth}) \]

Where:

• T_surface is the surface temperature (25°C).
• Gradient is the geothermal gradient (0.02°C/m).
• Depth is the depth (18 km = 18,000 meters).

Step 2: Substitute the Given Values

Substitute the given values into the formula:

\[ T = 25^\circ \text{C} + (0.02^\circ \text{C/m} \times 18000 \, \text{m}) \]

Now, calculate the geothermal temperature:

\[ T = 25^\circ \text{C} + 360^\circ \text{C} = 385^\circ \text{C} \]

Final Answer:

The temperature at a depth of 18 km is: 385°C (rounded to the nearest integer).