11/21/2024 Layers of the Earth

Front

What is the theory of continental drift?

Back

The theory that continents were once joined together and have since drifted apart over geological time.

Front

Who proposed the theory of continental drift?

Back

Alfred Wegener.

Front

What is the difference between oceanic crust and continental crust?

Back

Oceanic crust is thinner and denser, while continental crust is thicker and less dense.

Front

What is the lithosphere?

Back

The rigid outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and the upper part of the mantle.

Front

What is the asthenosphere?

Back

The semi-fluid layer beneath the lithosphere that allows tectonic plates to move.

Front

What is the outer core made of?

Back

Liquid iron and nickel.

Front

What is the inner core?

Back

The solid innermost layer of the Earth, composed mainly of iron and nickel.

Front

What is the mantle?

Back

The layer of the Earth between the crust and the core, composed of semi-solid rock.

Front

What evidence did Wegener use to support his theory?

Back

Fossil evidence, geological similarities, and the fit of the continents.

Front

Why was Wegener's theory initially rejected?

Back

He could not explain the mechanism of how continents moved.