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Questions and Answers
The layers of the Earth are based upon what differences?
Differences in chemical composition and physical properties.
Describe the crust, mantle, and core in terms of chemical composition. What are the two divisions of the crust?
The crust is primarily composed of silicate rocks, the mantle consists of silicate minerals rich in magnesium and iron, and the core is composed mainly of iron and nickel. The two divisions of the crust are the continental crust and the oceanic crust.
What factors determine the behavior of rocks? What are the three behaviors of rocks?
Factors include temperature, pressure, and the rock's composition. The three behaviors are elastic deformation, plastic deformation, and brittle fracture.
Describe the lithosphere, asthenosphere, mesosphere, and the core in terms of physical properties. What are the two divisions of the core?
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What is the geothermal gradient? How is heat generated?
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Be able to list the layers of the Earth in terms of chemical and physical properties from the surface down to the interior of the Earth.
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Study Notes
Layers of the Earth
- Layers are differentiated based on composition and physical properties.
- Main layers include the crust, mantle, outer core, and inner core.
Crust, Mantle, and Core
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Crust:
- Composed mainly of silicate rocks.
- Two divisions:
- Continental crust (thicker, less dense, granitic).
- Oceanic crust (thinner, denser, basaltic).
-
Mantle:
- Composed of silicate minerals richer in magnesium and iron.
- Extends to a depth of about 2,900 kilometers.
-
Core:
- Composed mainly of iron and nickel.
- Two divisions:
- Outer core (liquid, responsible for Earth's magnetic field).
- Inner core (solid due to immense pressure).
Factors Determining Rock Behavior
- Behavior of rocks is influenced by temperature, pressure, composition, and time.
- Three behaviors of rocks:
- Elastic (returns to original shape after stress).
- Ductile (deforms permanently under stress).
- Brittle (breaks without significant deformation).
Physical Properties of Layers
-
Lithosphere:
- Rigid outer layer comprising the crust and upper mantle.
-
Asthenosphere:
- Semi-fluid layer beneath the lithosphere, allowing for tectonic movement.
-
Mesosphere:
- Stiffer layer in the lower mantle, extending to the outer core.
-
Core:
- Outer core (liquid and convective).
- Inner core (solid and under extreme pressure).
Geothermal Gradient and Heat Generation
- Geothermal gradient refers to the rate of temperature increase with depth.
- Heat is generated through radioactive decay, residual heat from formation and ongoing volcanic activity.
Overview of Earth's Layers
-
Chemical Properties:
- Crust → Mantle → Outer Core → Inner Core
-
Physical Properties:
- Lithosphere → Asthenosphere → Mesosphere → Outer Core → Inner Core
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Description
Prepare for your GEOL 101 exam with this Chapter 1 study guide. Focus on understanding the Earth's layers, including the crust, mantle, and core, as well as the behaviors of rocks. This guide covers essential topics and key concepts to ensure your success.
