Greater radiogenic heat Faint young Sun paradox
the radiogenic heat decay of 4 isotopes affecting earth s internal heat budget on time: k (yellow), u (red), u (green) , th (violet). in past contribution k , u higher , overall radiogenic heat output higher.
in past, geothermal release of decay heat, emitted decay of isotopes potassium-40, uranium-235 , uranium-238 considerably greater today. figure right shows isotope ratio between uranium-238 , uranium-235 considerably different today, ratio equivalent of modern low-enriched uranium. therefore, natural uranium ore bodies, if present, have been capable of supporting natural nuclear fission reactors common light water moderator. attempts explain paradox must therefore factor in both radiogenic contributions, both decay heat , potential natural nuclear fission reactors.
the primary mechanism earth warming radiogenic heat not direct heating (which contribute less 0.1% total heat input of earth) rather establishment of high geothermal gradient of crust, resulting in greater out-gassing rate , therefore higher concentration of greenhouse gases in earth atmosphere. additionally, hotter deep crust limit water absorption crustal minerals, resulting in smaller amount of high-albedo land protruding oceans, causing more solar energy absorbed.
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