Plate Tectonics

The Earth's Interior

Plate Tectonics
Flow of matter & energy in the Earth
The Earth's Interior
Geoscientists observations
How the Theory of Plate Tectonics Developed

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The Earth's interior is measured by density. The less dense layers are nearer to the top and the more dense lie deep within the core. There is evidence that shows the accuracy of this statement. Scientist claim that the rocks are more dense when they lie deep within the mantle than when they are at the surface. This is due to pressure put on them. To find the density you need use Newton's Law of Gravitation.



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More evidence comes from the speed of earthquake waves. These waves move faster deeper in the earth which proves that it is more dense deeper in the earth. By obtaining this information scientists are able to determine things about the temperature, pressure, and rock type that are in the earth.

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The Earth's interior is composed of the:
Continental crust- composed of granitic silicate rock
Oceanic crust- composed of basaltic silicate rock
Mantle- composed of solid silicate
Outer core- composed of Liquid iron-nickel
Inner core- composed of solid iron-nickel