Lithosphere

The lithosphere is the outermost layer of the Earth and is composed of the crust and the uppermost part of the mantle. It is solid and relatively rigid, and is divided into tectonic plates that float on the semi-fluid asthenosphere below.

Composition

The lithosphere is primarily composed of rocks, minerals, and soil. The crust is made up of two types: the continental crust, which is thicker but less dense, and the oceanic crust, which is thinner but denser. The uppermost part of the mantle beneath the crust is also part of the lithosphere.

Structure

The lithosphere is divided into several tectonic plates that fit together like a jigsaw puzzle. These plates can move relative to each other, which leads to various geological phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountain ranges.

Functions

The lithosphere plays a crucial role in supporting life on Earth. It provides a solid surface for the growth of vegetation, the habitation of animals, and the development of human civilizations. The lithosphere also stores valuable natural resources such as minerals, fossil fuels, and groundwater.

Study Guide

What is the composition of the lithosphere?
Describe the structure of the lithosphere.
How do tectonic plates contribute to geological phenomena?
What role does the lithosphere play in supporting life on Earth?
What are some valuable resources stored in the lithosphere?

◂Science Worksheets and Study Guides Sixth Grade. Plate Tectonics

Vocabulary/Answer key

Plate Tectonics

Vocabulary/Answer key

Plate Tectonics

Vocabulary/Answer key

Plate Tectonics

Vocabulary/Answer key

Plate Tectonics

The resources above cover the following skills:

EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE

Earth’s Systems

Use evidence to explain how different geologic processes shape Earth’s history over widely varying scales of space and time (e.g., chemical and physical erosion; tectonic plate processes; volcanic eruptions; meteor impacts; regional geographical features, including Alabama fault lines, Rickwood Caverns, and Wetumpka Impact Crater).

Provide evidence from data of the distribution of fossils and rocks, continental shapes, and seafloor structures to explain past plate motions.

Use models to explain how the flow of Earth’s internal energy drives a cycling of matter between Earth’s surface and deep interior causing plate movements (e.g., mid-ocean ridges, ocean trenches, volcanoes, earthquakes, mountains, rift valleys, volcanic islands).