How is geothermal energy produced?

Geothermal energy is produced by harnessing the heat stored within the Earth, which can come from natural processes such as volcanic activity, geysers, and the Earth's internal heat. This heat is used to generate steam that turns turbines, thereby producing electricity. The process relies on the high temperatures found beneath the Earth's surface, which can be accessed through wells drilled into geothermal reservoirs. This makes geothermal energy a direct use of the Earth’s thermal energy, distinguishing it from other renewable energy sources like solar, wind, or fossil-fuel-based methods.

In contrast, capturing sunlight and converting it to electricity refers specifically to solar energy, while using wind to turn turbines pertains to wind energy generation. Burning fossil fuels for steam generation captures a different energy source that contributes to pollution and greenhouse gases, rather than utilizing the clean and sustainable heat from the Earth. Thus, the option that accurately describes geothermal energy production focuses on utilizing the Earth’s internal heat from natural geothermal features.