Layers of the Earth What is Geology Geology

Layers of the Earth

What is Geology? • Geology is the study of the rocks that make up the Earth, as well as the constructive and destructive forces that shape the Earth’s surface. • A geologist is a scientist that studies these processes. • Geologist use seismic waves from earthquakes to determine the structure of the interior of the Earth.

Journey to the Center of the Earth • As we go deeper into the Earth, pressure and temperature increase. • The first layer you have to go through is the crust.

The Crust • A layer of rock that forms Earth’s outer skin. • It includes soil, rock, and ocean floors. • The crust under the oceans is Basalt (More Dense, thinner, Mafic Rock) • The crust under the continents is Granite (Less Dense, thicker, Felsic Rock)

The Mantle • The mantle is a layer of solid hot rock. • The upper most part of the mantle and the crust are called the lithosphere. • As you travel deeper, the mantle gets softer, this is called the asthenosphere. • Inside of the A-sphere, convection currents transfer energy through the partially melted rock. Hot (less dense) rock rises, and cold (more dense) rock sinks. Just like a Lava Lamp.

The Core • The outer core is a layer of liquid metal of Iron and Nickel. • The inner core is a layer of solid Iron and Nickel. • The inner core spins and produces the Earth’s electromagnetic sphere which gives us Magnetic North and South Poles.

How does the Earth Stay Hot? • The interior of the Earth is hot due to the break down of radioactive elements within the inner layers. • As these elements get older, they give off radiation (heat) that drives the convection process.