Crust

The Earth's crust is the outermost layer of the Earth. It is a thin, solid shell that covers the Earth's surface. The crust is made up of a variety of rocks and minerals, and it is divided into two types: continental crust and oceanic crust.

Continental Crust

Continental crust is the part of the Earth's crust that makes up the continents and the areas of shallow seabed close to their shores. It is generally thicker and less dense than oceanic crust. Continental crust is primarily composed of less dense rocks such as granite and sedimentary rocks.

Oceanic Crust

Oceanic crust is the part of the Earth's crust that lies beneath the oceans. It is thinner and denser than continental crust. Oceanic crust is primarily composed of basalt, which is a dark, dense volcanic rock.

Study Guide

1. What is the Earth's crust?
2. What are the two types of crust?
3. Describe continental crust.
4. Describe oceanic crust.
5. What are the primary differences between continental and oceanic crust?

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