The lithosphere is the Earth's solid, outer layer, representing about 6% of the planet's total surface area.
Composition of the Lithosphere
The lithosphere is composed primarily of solidified Earth materials:
- Rocks: Various types of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks form the foundation of the lithosphere.
- Minerals: Numerous minerals are present, contributing to the diverse composition of the Earth's crust and mantle.
- Dust: Fine particles, including mineral fragments and organic debris, are integrated into the lithosphere.
Layers of the Lithosphere
The lithosphere is not a uniform layer but is further divided into three primary components:
- Mantle: The mantle is a mostly solid layer situated beneath the crust and above the core, it contains dense and hot semi-molten rock.
- Crust: The outermost solid shell of the Earth, comprising continental and oceanic crust.
- Core: The innermost part of the Earth, consisting of a solid inner core and liquid outer core.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Surface Area | Represents about 6% of the total surface area of the Earth. |
| Composition | Made up of solidified Earth materials, including rocks, minerals, and dust. |
| Main Layers | The lithosphere is composed of the crust, mantle, and core. |
In summary, the lithosphere is the rigid outer layer of Earth, accounting for a relatively small portion of the total surface area, and it is composed of rocks, minerals, and dust and has three main layers.
