What state of matter is the asthenosphere?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the physical state of matter of the asthenosphere, which is a layer of the Earth located beneath the lithosphere, primarily composed of semi-solid rock that flows slowly over time.
Answer
Predominantly solid but behaves like a plastic or viscous fluid.
The final answer is that the asthenosphere is predominantly solid but behaves like a plastic or viscous fluid under specific conditions.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is that the asthenosphere is predominantly solid but behaves like a plastic or viscous fluid under specific conditions.
More Information
Despite being solid, the asthenosphere's material can flow slowly under high heat and pressure, aiding tectonic plate movements.
Tips
A common mistake is to assume the asthenosphere is entirely liquid due to its flowing properties.
Sources
- What is the asthenosphere state of matter? - Homework.Study.com - homework.study.com
- Asthenosphere - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
- Asthenosphere | Mantle Layer, Plate Tectonics & Thermal Plumes - Britannica - britannica.com
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