The Earth can be divided in several ways, depending on the context. We can categorize these divisions into geological, geographical, and historical interpretations.
Geological Divisions
Geologically, the Earth is primarily divided into three main layers based on chemical composition and physical properties:
- The Crust: This is the outermost layer, relatively thin compared to the other layers. It's further subdivided into continental crust (thicker, less dense) and oceanic crust (thinner, denser).
- The Mantle: Situated beneath the crust, the mantle is the Earth's thickest layer. It's divided into the upper mantle and the lower mantle, each with distinct characteristics.
- The Core: The Earth's core is at the center and consists of two parts: the outer core (liquid) and the inner core (solid). Both are primarily composed of iron and nickel. (Source: Earth can be divided into three main layers: the core, the mantle and the crust. Each of these layers can be further divided into two parts…)
These layers are defined by differences in chemical composition and physical properties like density and temperature. (https://geo.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Geology/Book%3A_An_Introduction_toGeology(Johnson_Affolter_Inkenbrandt_and_Mosher)/02%3A_Plate_Tectonics/2.02%3A_Layers_of_the_Earth) This geological layering is crucial to understanding processes like plate tectonics and volcanism. (Source: As you peel back the layers, you find the crust, mantle, outer core, and inner core.)
Geographical Divisions
Geographically, the Earth is often divided into continents and oceans. However, these divisions are somewhat arbitrary, based on human constructs and not solely on geological features. The way the world is divided regionally also depends on the criteria used: political boundaries, cultural similarities, climate, or economic factors. (https://study.com/academy/lesson/how-the-world-is-divided-regionally.html)
Historical Divisions (Biblical Context)
In a historical context, specifically within biblical interpretation, the phrase "in the days of Peleg the earth was divided" (Genesis 10:25) often refers to the dispersion of humanity following the Tower of Babel event. This division isn't a physical splitting of the Earth but rather a separation of people into different language groups and cultures. (https://www.quora.com/What-does-in-the-days-of-Peleg-the-earth-was-divided-mean-in-Genesis-10-25, https://creation.com/in-pelegs-days-the-earth-was-divided-what-does-this-mean)
