What is the correct order of energy flows to the Earth's surface from largest to smallest?

The correct order of energy flows to the Earth's surface from largest to smallest is Solar, Geothermal, Tidal.

Solar energy is the dominant source of energy that reaches the Earth's surface, driving most of the climate processes and supporting life through photosynthesis. The Sun emits an enormous amount of energy, with approximately 1300 watts per square meter reaching the upper atmosphere, which significantly exceeds the energies contributed by geothermal and tidal sources.

Geothermal energy, while substantial, is derived from the heat contained within the Earth itself. This heat originates from the formation of the Earth and the decay of radioactive isotopes. Although geothermal energy can provide a steady and substantial energy source in certain regions, it is significantly less than solar energy across the entire globe.

Tidal energy results from gravitational interactions between the Earth, the Moon, and the Sun, leading to the periodic movement of water in the oceans. While tidal forces play a role in energy balance on Earth and can be harnessed for energy generation, the amount of energy derived from tidal movements is considerably less than that from solar and geothermal sources.

Therefore, the hierarchy of energy flows to the Earth's surface is accurately represented as Solar being the largest, followed by Geothermal, and then Tidal as the smallest source.