Earth systems:
The Earth systems can be divided into those that work mainly at the surface and those that work mainly in the interior.
All surface processes such as erosion are driven by solar energy and by gravity.
Heat energy from the Sun = 340 W/m2
Heat from the sun is transported through space by radiation
Internal systems - consist of moving plates at and near Earth's surface (plate tectonics) and the rise of hot material from the inner Earth to the surface. Review this Synopsis of plate tectonic theory and its implications for Earth history
The energy for plate tectonics processes and volcanoes comes from Earth's interior.
Heat energy from the interior = average 6.142 ·10-2 W/m2 (Watts per square meter)
What is the source of the internal heat of the Earth? - Click here to find out about the thermal history of Earth