Earth's Hidden Layers Revealed
Journey to the Centre of Our Planet Year 9 Geography Exploring Earth's Internal Structure
What do you already know about Earth's structure?
Think about what lies beneath your feet What have you heard about earthquakes and volcanoes? How deep do you think we could dig?
The Four Layers of Earth
The Crust - Earth's Thin Skin
Thinnest layer - only 5-70km thick Solid rock we live on Two types: oceanic and continental Like the skin of an apple compared to Earth's size
The Mantle - Earth's Hot Middle
Thickest layer - about 2,900km thick Semi-solid rock that flows very slowly Extremely hot - up to 4,000°C Convection currents drive plate movement
The Core - Earth's Heart
{"left":"Outer Core: Liquid iron and nickel, Creates Earth's magnetic field, Temperature: 4,000-6,000°C, Thickness: 2,300km","right":"Inner Core: Solid iron and nickel, Extreme pressure keeps it solid, Temperature: up to 6,000°C, Radius: 1,200km"}
Build Your Earth Model
Use modeling clay to create Earth's layers Make each layer a different color Label your model with the four layer names Compare your model with a partner
Why Earth's Layers Matter
Layers explain earthquakes and volcanoes Help us understand natural disasters Show us how continents move over time Reveal Earth's amazing hidden processes