No idea of how to really start this question

  • Thread starter Thread starter crysix
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Idea No idea
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the temperature at a depth of 35.0 km in the Earth's crust, given a surface temperature of 8.70°C, a thermal conductivity of 3.96 W/m·K, and a heat flow of 63.7 mW/m². The user initially attempted to apply Fourier's law of heat conduction using the formula P = KA × [(T(h) - T(c)) / L], but miscalculated the temperature difference. Correcting the approach, the user realizes that the temperature increases with depth, leading to a recalculated temperature of 579.65°C at that depth, which aligns with geological expectations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Fourier's law of heat conduction
  • Basic knowledge of thermal conductivity
  • Familiarity with temperature gradient concepts in geology
  • Ability to perform unit conversions and calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of heat transfer in geological contexts
  • Learn about geothermal gradients and their implications
  • Explore the effects of radioactive decay on subsurface temperatures
  • Investigate the use of thermal conductivity measurements in geological surveys
USEFUL FOR

Geologists, environmental scientists, and students studying earth sciences who are interested in geothermal energy and subsurface temperature calculations.

crysix
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
The average rate at which energy is conducted outward through the ground surface in a certain region is 63.7 mW/m2, and the average thermal conductivity of the near-surface rocks is 3.96 W/m·K. Assuming a surface temperature of 8.70°C, find the temperature (in Celsius) at a depth of 35.0 km (near the base of the crust). Ignore the heat generated by the presence of radioactive elements.

So i understand that the surface is radiating energy at 63.7 mW/m^2
and that k for the surface rocks is 3.96
whilst the surface temperature is 8.70°C


I thought of using P = KA x [(T(h) - T(c)) / L]
L = 35500 M
K = 3.96
P = 0.0637 W
A = 1 m ^ 2
T(h) - T(c) = 8.60 - T(c)

Solving for T(c) = -562.45 <---- I don't think that's correct at all

would any of you offer me in assistance on how to approach this question?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
How is 8.6 T(h)? It's hotter deeper down.
 
haha silly me,
hence if i use T(c) as 8.6
then i get T(H) as 579.65 which I can understand because it gets quite hot down there, but would that be correct?
 

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
15K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
18K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
4K