11.1.2

The Structure of the Earth

Test yourself

The Earth's Layers

The Earth has 3 layers: core, mantle, crust. Each layer has a different consistency (thickness and make-up):

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Core

  • The core is in the centre and split into 2 layers:
    • Inner metallic core (solid).
    • Outer core (liquid).
  • The core is the hottest part of the Earth.
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Mantle

  • The mantle surrounds the core.
  • It is semi-solid rock, which is molten and can move.
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Lithosphere

  • The lithosphere is a very thin outer shell. This is the layer we live on. It is between 50 and 200 km thick.
  • The lithosphere is floating on the semi-solid rock mantle.
  • The lithosphere is broken into large pieces called tectonic plates.

Jump to other topics

1Geography Skills

2Geology of the UK

3Geography of the World

4Development

5Weather & Climate

6The World of Work

7Natural Resources

8Rivers

9Coasts

10Glaciers

11Tectonics

12Climate Change

13Global Population & Inequality

14Urbanisation

15Ecosystems

16Life in an Emerging Country

17Analysis of Africa

18Analysis of India

19Analysis of the Middle East

20Analysis of Bangladesh

21Analysis of Russia

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