Learn
Games
2. Structure of the Earth

The Earth's internal structure is composed of three main layers: the crust, mantle, and core. Each layer has distinct characteristics, such as composition, state, and temperature. Various methods, including seismic wave analysis and volcanic activity, are utilized to study these layers, providing insights into geological events like earthquakes and volcanoes, as well as the distribution of natural resources.

Sections

  • 2

    Structure Of The Earth

    The Earth comprises three main layers—crust, mantle, and core—each with distinct characteristics and significance for understanding geological processes.

  • 2.1

    Introduction

    The Earth has a layered internal structure that is essential for understanding geological processes such as earthquakes and volcanoes.

  • 2.2

    Layers Of The Earth

    The Earth consists of three main layers: the crust, mantle, and core, each with unique characteristics and compositions.

  • 2.2.1

    Crust (Lithosphere)

    The crust, or lithosphere, is the Earth's outermost layer, composed of solid rocks and divided into tectonic plates, varying in thickness.

  • 2.2.2

    Mantle

    The mantle is the Earth’s thick layer situated below the crust and composed of semi-solid silicate rocks, which play a critical role in tectonic activity.

  • 2.2.2.1

    Upper Mantle

    The upper mantle is a semi-solid layer beneath the Earth's crust, crucial for tectonic movements.

  • 2.2.2.2

    Lower Mantle

    The lower mantle is a solid layer of the Earth located beneath the upper mantle, characterized by its composition of silicate rocks rich in iron and magnesium and significant pressure.

  • 2.2.3

    Core

    The core is the Earth's innermost layer, primarily composed of iron and nickel, divided into a liquid outer core and a solid inner core.

  • 2.2.3.1

    Outer Core

    The outer core is the liquid layer surrounding the inner core of the Earth, primarily composed of iron and nickel and plays a key role in generating the Earth's magnetic field.

  • 2.2.3.2

    Inner Core

    The inner core is the Earth's deepest layer, consisting of solid iron and nickel and is extremely hot.

  • 2.3

    Characteristics Of Earth's Layers

    This section outlines the three main layers of the Earth, discussing their depth, state, composition, and temperature.

  • 2.4

    Earth’s Interior Study Methods

    Scientists utilize various indirect methods to study the Earth's interior due to limited direct access.

  • 2.5

    Importance Of Understanding Earth's Structure

    Understanding Earth's structure is vital for explaining geological phenomena and locating natural resources.

References

g9-2.pdf

Class Notes

Memorization

What we have learnt

  • The Earth has a layered str...
  • Seismic waves, volcanic eru...
  • Grasping the structure of t...

Final Test

Revision Tests

Chapter FAQs