1. The Interior Structure of Earth
1/13/17
The Interior Structure of Earth
Objective: I will model the interior structure of Earth based on both chemical and physical composition.
PAGE 49

2. Earth’s Interior can be divided two ways:
chemical composition- what elements make up each layer
physical composition- what state of matter the layer is

4. Chemical Composition crust:
made up mostly of silicates (silicon + oxygen)
two types:
oceanic- thinner, more dense
continental- thicker, less dense

5. Chemical Composition mantle: core:
composed of silicates, but also aluminum, magnesium, and iron
more dense than the crust
core:
composed of iron and nickel
most dense layer

6. Physical Composition Lithosphere: Asthenosphere: Mesosphere:
solid outer layer of Earth
crust + the upper mantle
Asthenosphere:
has characteristics of a solid and a liquid
plasticity- the ability of a solid to flow
Mesosphere:
Solid mantle rock below asthenosphere

7. Physical Composition Inner Core: Outer Core:
very dense liquid iron and nickel
flowing metals generate Earth’s magnetic field
Inner Core:
solid iron and nickel due to extreme pressure

8. Output Activity (Page 48)
You have two options:
Illustrate the diagram of Earth’s interior
May use Figure 2 from page 28 in your textbook or find your own diagram on the iPad
Label your diagram with both the chemical and physical layers
2) Create a graphic organizer to organize the information from your notes about Earth’s interior
Concept map
Venn diagram
T-chart