Theory question 303
Structure of the Earth(a) Define the term lithosphere. (b) State three characteristics of the lithosphere. (c) Outline five benefits of the lithosphere.
Show the model answer
Model answer
(a) The lithosphere is the solid outer layer of the earth, made up of the crust and the uppermost part of the mantle.
(b) Made of rocks and soil; consists of continental crust (sial) and oceanic crust (sima); thickness about 5-70 km (thicker under continents); broken into tectonic plates; has landforms such as mountains, plains and plateaus.
(c) Land for settlement and buildings; soil for agriculture; minerals and fossil fuels; building materials (sand, stone, clay); habitat for plants and animals; stores groundwater; tourism (landscapes); supports roads and other infrastructure.
Explanation
Name the two crust types.