Which statement describes geothermal energy's mechanism and accessibility?

Which statement describes geothermal energy's mechanism and accessibility?

• A. It relies on solar heat captured by panels.
• B. It uses the heat stored in the earth's interior to heat water, which is brought back to the surface as steam to drive an electric generator, and is prohibitively expensive and not accessible.
• C. It is the easiest and cheapest form of energy to access.
• D. It creates hydrogen as a byproduct.

Answer: (B)

Geothermal energy harnesses heat from inside the Earth. This heat is used to heat water in underground reservoirs; the resulting steam is brought to the surface to drive a turbine that powers a generator, producing electricity. Accessibility depends on local geology—areas with suitable geothermal resources can develop plants, but others face high upfront costs for drilling and infrastructure, making it not universally easy or cheap. The described mechanism is correct, and the other statements misstate either how geothermal works or its economic and practical feasibility.

Geothermal energy harnesses heat from inside the Earth. This heat is used to heat water in underground reservoirs; the resulting steam is brought to the surface to drive a turbine that powers a generator, producing electricity. Accessibility depends on local geology—areas with suitable geothermal resources can develop plants, but others face high upfront costs for drilling and infrastructure, making it not universally easy or cheap. The described mechanism is correct, and the other statements misstate either how geothermal works or its economic and practical feasibility.