Question

Each phrase below describes a vocabulary term from the list. Write the term that matches the phrase describing it. Plasticlike layer below the lithosphere

Short answer

Asthenosphere

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Problem

The phrase asks for a vocabulary term that describes a `plasticlike layer below the lithosphere`. It points out that the layer should have properties that allow it to flow, which is characteristic of a specific part of Earth’s interior.

Recalling Vocabulary

The main layers of the Earth include the crust, mantle, outer core, and inner core. We know the lithosphere includes the crust and the uppermost part of the mantle. The layer directly below the lithosphere is part of the mantle.

Identifying the Layer

The layer below the lithosphere is known as the asthenosphere. It is a semi-fluid, plastic-like region of the mantle that allows tectonic plates above it to move.

Confirming the Term

Cross-referencing the properties mentioned ('plasticlike') with our knowledge, we confirm that the term 'asthenosphere' fits the description given in the phrase.

Key concepts

Lithosphere

The lithosphere is the solid, outer part of the Earth. It comprises the crust and the uppermost part of the mantle. This layer is rigid and is broken into large pieces called tectonic plates. These plates float on the semi-fluid layer beneath, known as the asthenosphere. The lithosphere's thickness can vary from about 40 km under the oceans to about 200 km under the continents. It plays a critical role in geological processes such as volcanic activity, earthquakes, and the creation of mountain ranges.

• Rigid and brittle layer
• Made up of tectonic plates
• Interacts with the asthenosphere

Earth's Interior

Earth's interior is composed of several distinct layers, each with unique properties. These layers include the crust, mantle, outer core, and inner core. The crust and the upper part of the mantle form the lithosphere, while beneath it lies the asthenosphere, a semi-fluid region that allows tectonic plates to move. Understanding these layers helps explain various geological phenomena like plate tectonics and volcanic activity. The Earth's interior is dynamic, with temperature and pressure increasing as you go deeper.

• Crust: Earth's outermost layer
• Mantle: Contains the asthenosphere
• Core: Consists of liquid outer core and solid inner core

Tectonic Plates

Tectonic plates are large, solid pieces of the Earth's lithosphere. They sit on the flowing asthenosphere, which allows them to move. This movement can cause earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and the creation of mountains. Plates can move in three main ways: they can slide past one another, move toward each other, or move away from each other. The edges where plates meet are known as boundaries.

• Divergent boundaries: where plates move apart
• Convergent boundaries: where plates move toward each other
• Transform boundaries: where plates slide past each other

Mantle

The mantle is the thick layer between the Earth's crust and core. It is composed of silicate rocks rich in iron and magnesium. The upper part of the mantle, along with the crust, forms the rigid lithosphere. Beneath the lithosphere, the mantle is partially melted and forms the asthenosphere, which is crucial for plate tectonics.
The mantle is much larger than the crust, making up about 84% of Earth's volume. It is involved in convection currents, which drive the movement of tectonic plates. These currents are caused by heat from the inner Earth, which makes the hot parts of the mantle rise, while cooler areas sink.

• Composed mainly of silicate rocks
• Contains the plastic-like asthenosphere
• Convection currents drive plate movements