Inferred Properties of Earth's Interior (ESRT)

Front

What is the composition of the continental crust compared to the oceanic crust?

Back

The continental crust is usually thicker and has a less dense, granitic composition.

Front

What part of Earth's interior is inferred to have convection currents that cause tectonic plates to move?

Back

The asthenosphere.

Front

Which two elements make up most of Earth's crust by volume?

Back

Oxygen and silicon.

Front

Which layer of Earth is represented by letter B in a diagram?

Back

Earth's mantle.

Front

In which area of Earth's interior is the pressure most likely to be 2.5 million atmospheres?

Back

The outer core.

Front

What is the primary characteristic of the asthenosphere?

Back

It is a semi-fluid layer of the upper mantle where convection currents occur.

Front

What is the difference in density between oceanic and continental crust?

Back

Oceanic crust is denser than continental crust.

Front

What is the main component of the Earth's inner core?

Back

The inner core is primarily composed of iron and nickel.

Front

What is the state of matter of the outer core?

Back

The outer core is in a liquid state.

Front

What is the significance of convection currents in the mantle?

Back

Convection currents drive the movement of tectonic plates.