Questions and Answers
What is the approximate thickness range of the Earth's crust?
What is the dominant element composition of the Earth's core?
Which layer of the Earth is composed of molten rock?
What is the general temperature range in the mantle?
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The lithosphere is characterized by which of the following?
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Study Notes
Crust
- Outermost layer of the Earth, serves as the surface for life.
- Thinnest layer, ranging from 5 to 70 km in thickness.
- Average surface temperature around 59°F (15°C).
- Composes only 1% of Earth’s total mass.
- Directly interacts with the atmosphere.
- Made primarily of solid rock, predominantly basalt and granite.
Lithosphere
- Encompasses the outer layer of the Earth, combining the crust and upper mantle.
- Consists of rigid rocks that are divided into tectonic plates.
- Includes rocks and soil essential for terrestrial ecosystems.
Mantle
- Thickest layer of the Earth, extending about 2900 km in thickness.
- Temperature fluctuates between 1600°F and 4000°F.
- Contains 66% of Earth’s total mass, showcasing significant volume.
- Features slow flow due to convection processes within this layer.
- Composed mainly of molten rock (magma), allowing for dynamic movements.
Asthenosphere
- Located in the middle mantle, characterized by solid but flowing rock.
- Acts as a semi-fluid layer permitting tectonic plates of the lithosphere to move atop it.
Core
- Innermost layer, extremely hot with temperatures ranging from 4000°F to 8000°F.
- Notable for its high density and immense pressure, being 4000 miles from the Earth's surface.
- Accounts for 33% of Earth’s total mass.
- Made predominantly of iron and nickel, key metals that contribute to Earth's magnetic field.
- Roughly the same size as the planet Mars, highlighting its significant volume in comparison to the rest of the Earth.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the Earth's structure, including the crust, lithosphere, mantle, and asthenosphere. Explore dimensions, compositions, and differences in temperature of each layer. See how well you understand the Earth's geologic framework.
