Podcast
Questions and Answers
Why are no P-waves or S-waves received in the shadow zone?
Why are no P-waves or S-waves received in the shadow zone?
Compared to Earth's continental crust, Earth's oceanic crust is?
Compared to Earth's continental crust, Earth's oceanic crust is?
thinner and more dense
The basaltic bedrock of the oceanic crust is classified as?
The basaltic bedrock of the oceanic crust is classified as?
mafic, with a density of 3.0 g/cm3
What is the inferred temperature at the interface between the stiffer mantle and the asthenosphere?
What is the inferred temperature at the interface between the stiffer mantle and the asthenosphere?
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Which combination of temperature and pressure is inferred to occur within Earth's stiffer mantle?
Which combination of temperature and pressure is inferred to occur within Earth's stiffer mantle?
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Most inferences about the characteristics of Earth's mantle and core are based on?
Most inferences about the characteristics of Earth's mantle and core are based on?
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Evidence of crustal subsidence is provided by?
Evidence of crustal subsidence is provided by?
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Which process was primarily responsible for forming the hills?
Which process was primarily responsible for forming the hills?
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What takes 8 minutes and 20 seconds?
What takes 8 minutes and 20 seconds?
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Study Notes
Seismic Waves and Earth's Structure
- No P-waves or S-waves are detected in the shadow zone due to the refraction of P-waves and the absorption of S-waves by Earth's outer core.
- Most characteristics of Earth's mantle and core are inferred from the behavior of seismic waves within Earth's interior.
Earth's Crust
- Earth's oceanic crust is thinner and denser compared to the continental crust.
- The basaltic bedrock of the oceanic crust is classified as mafic, exhibiting a density of 3.0 g/cm³.
Temperature and Pressure in Earth's Interior
- The inferred temperature at the boundary between the stiffer mantle and the asthenosphere is approximately 2500°C.
- Within Earth's stiffer mantle, the combination of temperature and pressure inferred is around 3500°C and 0.4 million atmospheres.
Geological Evidence and Processes
- Evidence for crustal subsidence, or sinking, is indicated by the presence of shallow-water fossils located beneath the deep ocean.
- The primary process responsible for forming hills is faulting.
Time Measurement
- The time it takes for light to travel from the Sun to Earth is approximately 8 minutes and 20 seconds.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the Earth's crust and seismic activity. This quiz covers important concepts about P-waves, S-waves, and the characteristics of continental and oceanic crusts. Understand the fundamental properties governing Earth's layers and their densities.
