What is the internal structure of the Earth?

The internal structure of the Earth consists of several concentric spherical layers defined by their chemical and physical properties. Mechanically, it features a rigid lithosphere, semi-fluid asthenosphere and mesosphere, liquid outer core, and solid inner core. Chemically, it is divided into a silicate crust, a ferromagnesian mantle, and an iron-nickel core.

What we know

• The mechanical structure of the Earth consists of a rigid lithosphere, a semi-fluid asthenosphere, a semi-fluid mesosphere, a liquid outer core, and a solid, rigid inner core. [1, 2]
• The chemical structure of the Earth comprises a silicate crust, a ferromagnesian mantle, and an iron-nickel core. [1, 2]
• The flowing upper portion of the iron-nickel core generates the Earth's magnetic field. [2]
• Scientific understanding of Earth's interior comes from seismic wave analysis, surface rock observations, volcanic samples, gravity and magnetic measurements, and high-pressure laboratory experiments. [2]

Where to go next

• how we knowHow do seismic waves reveal Earth's interior?
• what caused itWhat generates the Earth's magnetic field?
• compared withWhat is the difference between lithosphere and asthenosphere?
• the bigger pictureWhat are buildings made of soil called?
• a case in pointWhat is the Vredefort impact structure?
• an unexpected connectionHow do giant impact craters relate to Earth's deep layers?While the planet's internal layers form its core structure, massive ancient impacts like Vredefort deform the underlying bedrock globally preserved at the surface.

Sources

• [1]internal structure of Earth (Wikidata Q1664027) · CC0 1.0
• [2]Internal structure of Earth · CC BY-SA 4.0
• [3]Earth structure · CC BY-SA 4.0
• [4]List of impact structures on Earth · CC BY-SA 4.0
• [5]Vredefort impact structure · CC BY-SA 4.0

Your path

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