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The Structure of the Earth

Geography: KS3, topic 11.1.2

The Earth's Layers

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

Core

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.
Mantle

Mantle

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

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.

Test yourself on The Structure of the Earth

  • What are the two layers of the Earth's core?

  • Toggle until all boxes are correct: what are characteristics of the Earth's mantle?

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