Question

Ocean thermal energy is due to

• A. energy stored by waves in the ocean
• B. temperature differences at different levels in the ocean
• C. pressure difference at different levels in the ocean
• D. tides arising out in the ocean

Answer 1

The correct option is B

temperature differences at different levels in the ocean

Explanation for correct option:

Option (B) is correct.

1. The word thermal refers to heat which connects to temperature.
2. There are different temperatures at different levels of the ocean. This is why there is ocean thermal energy
3. Shallow or surface water is warm compared to deep cool water.

Explanation for Incorrect options:

Option A:

To contribute to thermal energy, waves do not have prominent energy, therefore option A is incorrect.

Option C:

Pressure has no connection with thermal energy, so even if there is variation in pressure, it does not contribute to thermal energy and due to this option C is incorrect.

Option D:

When tides rise and fall in the ocean they carry tidal energy and not heat therefore option D is also incorrect.

Hence, option (B) is the correct answer.