Which of the following is a characteristic of geothermal energy?

Geothermal energy is a renewable resource that harnesses heat from the Earth, specifically from the subsurface layers where temperatures can be quite high. This heat can be utilized for various applications, including electricity generation and direct heating purposes. One of the primary characteristics that distinguishes it from fossil fuels is its ability to be replenished naturally over time, making geothermal energy a sustainable option as long as the heat reservoirs are managed properly.

The other options either misrepresent the nature of geothermal energy or misunderstand its operational context. For instance, geothermal energy is not limited to tropical regions; it can be found in areas across various geographical locations, particularly where tectonic activity occurs, including places like Iceland, the United States, and some regions in Asia. Moreover, it does not require extensive fossil fuel use since it relies primarily on the natural heat of the Earth, and it has a relatively low environmental impact, which means it produces significantly lower amounts of pollutants compared to fossil fuel-based energy sources. Therefore, the assertion that geothermal energy is a renewable resource accurately captures its main defining characteristic.