The Layers of the Earth
The Earth is made up of four main layers, each with its own unique characteristics. Let’s explore them!
- Crust:
- This is the outermost layer of the Earth where we live. It’s like the skin of an apple! The crust is solid and relatively thin compared to the other layers. It includes the land we walk on and the ocean floors.
- Mantle:
- Beneath the crust lies the mantle, which is much thicker and made of semi-solid rock. It extends to a depth of about 2,900 kilometers. The mantle is hot and flows slowly, almost like a thick liquid. This movement helps drive the tectonic plates that make up the crust.
- Outer Core:
- Below the mantle is the outer core, which is liquid and made mostly of iron and nickel. This layer is extremely hot, and the movement of the liquid metal here creates the Earth’s magnetic field.
- Inner Core:
- At the very center of the Earth is the inner core, which is solid and also made of iron and nickel. Despite the intense heat, reaching up to 5,700 degrees Celsius, the inner core remains solid due to the immense pressure from the layers above it.
These layers together create the dynamic planet that supports life and geological activity.
