Geosphere/geosphere. Structure of planet.pptx

The lithosphere is the rigid, outermost layer of the Earth, encompassing the crust and the uppermost part of the mantle. It is divided into tectonic plates, which float on the more fluid asthenosphere beneath them. These plates interact at their boundaries, causing geological activities such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and mountain formation.

1. E a r t h a n d l i f e s c i nce

2. The lithosphere is the outermost layer of the Earth, encompassing the crust and the uppermost part of the mantle.

3. It is rigid and is divided into tectonic plates, which float on the more ductile asthenosphere beneath.

4. The movement of these tectonic plates is responsible for geological activities such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and the formation of mountain ranges.

5. The lithosphere is critical in shaping the Earth's surface and influencing its geological and environmental processes.

6. Composition:The lithosphere includes both the Earth's crust (continental and oceanic) and the rigid uppermost part of the mantle.The continental crust is generally composed of granitic rocks, which are less dense.The oceanic crust is primarily composed of basaltic rocks, which are denser.

7. Thickness:The thickness of the lithosphere varies. It can be about 100 kilometers thick beneath the continents and about 5-10 kilometers thick beneath the oceanic crust.Tectonic Plates:The lithosphere is divided into several large and small tectonic plates, such as the Pacific Plate, North American Plate, Eurasian Plate, and African Plate.These plates move relative to each other due to the convective currents in the semi-fluid asthenosphere beneath them.