Earth’s Structure

Model Ship from Ancient Egyptian Tomb, 2000 BC

A Journey to the Centre of the Earth

Public Domain

Although the outer layer of the Earth, called the crust, seems rocky and solid, it actually floats on another layer, called the mantle. Deep inside the Earth exist different layers, each with unique properties. These layers have a lot to do with life on Earth as we know it.

In this topic you'll learn about the various layers of the Earth and their properties such as thickness and composition. You'll also learn how the outer layer functions in isostatic balance with the mantle.

Essential Questions

  • How do scientists classify Earth's internal structure?
  • How does Earth's crust differ from the lithosphere?
  • How does Archimedes' Principal relate to the structure of Earth?
  • What is isostatic equilibrium?