The density of continental crust is approximately 2.7 g/cm3.
Continental crust, which makes up the landmasses of Earth, is composed primarily of granitic rock. This composition contributes to its relatively low density compared to oceanic crust. Here's a breakdown:
- Composition: Continental crust is rich in minerals like quartz and feldspar, which are less dense than the iron and magnesium-rich minerals found in oceanic crust.
- Thickness: Continental crust is significantly thicker than oceanic crust, averaging around 30-50 km compared to oceanic crust's 5-10 km. However, thickness doesn't directly dictate density, but the differing compositions do.
- Comparison to Oceanic Crust: Oceanic crust, mainly composed of basalt, has a density of around 3.0 g/cm3, making it denser than continental crust. This difference in density is why the continents "float" higher on the Earth's mantle.
The difference in density between continental and oceanic crust is a key factor in plate tectonics and the distribution of landmasses on Earth.
