Step 1: Concept
Grain growth is a process that occurs after recrystallization to further reduce the energy of the material system.
Step 2: Meaning
During recrystallization, stored energy from dislocations is removed. Once complete, the system still possesses energy associated with the total area of grain boundaries.
Step 3: Analysis
Large grains have a lower surface-to-volume ratio than small grains. The system naturally trends toward larger grains to minimize the total grain boundary energy.
Step 4: Conclusion
Thus, grain boundary energy is the primary driving force for grain growth once the stored energy of deformation has been exhausted.
Final Answer: (A)