Layers of the Earth Worksheet

Layers of the Earth

Read each question carefully and provide detailed answers based on your knowledge of Earth's internal structure. For multiple-choice questions, select the best option. For short answer and essay questions, write complete sentences.

1. Which layer of the Earth is primarily responsible for generating the Earth's magnetic field?

2. The asthenosphere is a ductile layer within the Earth's mantle that allows for the movement of tectonic plates. What is its primary physical state?

1. The outermost layer of the Earth, the  , is composed of both continental and oceanic types.

2. The   is the thickest layer of the Earth, making up about 84% of its volume.

3. Convection currents within the   are thought to be the driving force behind plate tectonics.

1. Briefly describe the differences in composition between the inner and outer core of the Earth.

2. Explain how seismic waves are used to infer the structure and composition of Earth's interior.

Study the diagram of Earth's layers below and answer the questions that follow.

1. Label the four main layers of the Earth shown in the diagram.

2. Based on the diagram, which layer is the thinnest and which is the thickest?

1. The lithosphere includes the crust and the uppermost rigid part of the mantle.

2. The temperature and pressure decrease as you go deeper into the Earth's interior.