Layers of the Earth Flashcards

Questions and Answers

The hottest layer of the earth is the _____.

inner core

The layer of the earth that is composed of rock, yet flows due to extreme heat and pressure, is known as the _____.

asthenosphere

As the submersible sets down on the ocean floor, it is resting on what layer of the earth?

lithosphere

The ability of solid rock to flow is called _____.

plasticity Signup and view all the answers

An area where the earth's crust would be expected to be thin would be _____.

under the Pacific Ocean Signup and view all the answers

The layer of the earth that is composed of large plates that interlock and move over time is the _____.

lithosphere Signup and view all the answers

The geosphere refers to the _____.

All of the above, at the same time. Signup and view all the answers

Match each Earth layer with the correct description:

Inner Core = Inmost region of the earth; composed of solid iron Outer Core = Layer immediately outside the inner core; composed of liquid iron and sulfur Lower Mantle = Innermost layer of the two mantle layers; composed of rock and cooler than the core Upper Mantle = Outermost layer of the two mantle layers; includes the asthenosphere and lower lithosphere Crust = The outermost layer that forms the surface of the earth Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Layers of the Earth

The inner core is the hottest layer, composed primarily of solid iron.
The asthenosphere is a layer of rock within the mantle that flows due to high heat and pressure, demonstrating plasticity.
The lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of the Earth, which includes the crust and uppermost mantle. It is composed of large tectonic plates that move over time.
Plasticity describes the property that allows solid rock to flow under extreme conditions, crucial for plate tectonics.
Oceanic regions, particularly under the Pacific Ocean, are expected to have thinner sections of the Earth’s crust compared to continental areas.
The geosphere encompasses all terrestrial aspects of Earth, including the crust, mantle, and core, emphasizing interconnectedness.
Descriptions of Earth's layers:
- Inner Core: innermost part, solid iron
- Outer Core: liquid layer surrounding the inner core, composed of iron and sulfur
- Lower Mantle: the cooler inner portion of the mantle made of solid rock, located below the upper mantle
- Upper Mantle: includes the asthenosphere, which is capable of flowing, and the lower lithosphere.
- Crust: the thin outer layer that is the planet's surface, accommodating landforms and bodies of water.

Description

Test your knowledge of the Earth's layers with these flashcards. From the inner core to the lithosphere, learn about the different components that make up our planet. Perfect for students studying Earth science and geology.