Geophysics Geodynamics and heat flow Concept
Geothermal gradient
Summary
The geothermal gradient is the rate at which temperature increases with depth inside the Earth. Near the surface of continents, away from volcanic regions, it is typically about 25 to 30 degrees Celsius per kilometre. Multiplied by the thermal conductivity of the rock, it gives the heat flow out of the Earth. Measurements of it constrain the thermal state of the lithosphere and were used in early estimates of the age of the Earth.
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| Tag | N9RFPKXE2Z |
|---|---|
| URI | m2://N9RFPKXE2Z |
| Kind | concept |
| Writing | W0 stub |
| MSC | 86A04, 80A19 |
| Same as | |
| Changed | 3 November 2026 |
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