Earth's Interior

Front

What is the lithosphere?

Back

The lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of the Earth, consisting of the crust and the uppermost part of the mantle.

Front

What state of matter is the asthenosphere?

Back

The asthenosphere is solid but bendable, allowing for the movement of tectonic plates.

Front

What is the outer core?

Back

The outer core is a liquid layer of the Earth located beneath the mantle and above the inner core, responsible for generating Earth's magnetic field.

Front

What is the continental crust?

Back

The continental crust is the thick part of the Earth's crust that forms the continents, composed mainly of granite.

Front

What are seismic waves?

Back

Seismic waves are waves of energy that travel through the Earth, often generated by earthquakes, and are used to study the Earth's interior.

Front

What is the difference between the lithosphere and the asthenosphere?

Back

The lithosphere is rigid and includes the crust and upper mantle, while the asthenosphere is semi-fluid and allows for tectonic movement.

Front

What is the state of matter of the inner core?

Back

The inner core is solid, composed mainly of iron and nickel, and is extremely hot.

Front

What is an example of direct evidence for studying Earth's interior?

Back

Rock samples obtained from drilling are an example of direct evidence.

Front

What is the role of the outer core in Earth's magnetic field?

Back

The movement of liquid iron in the outer core generates electric currents, which produce Earth's magnetic field.

Front

What is the difference between oceanic crust and continental crust?

Back

Oceanic crust is thinner and denser, primarily composed of basalt, while continental crust is thicker and less dense, primarily composed of granite.