What is the definition of the asthenosphere? A. A semi-fluid portion of the uppe

Question

What is the definition of the asthenosphere? A. A semi-fluid portion of the upper mantle that supports overlying tectonic plates B. The outermost layer of the Earth, rigid and cool C. The rigid, cool outer portion of the Earth composed of the crust and the rigid part of the mantle D. The rigid part of the upper mantle What is the definition of the asthenosphere? A. A semi-fluid portion of the upper mantle that supports overlying tectonic plates B. The outermost layer of the Earth, rigid and cool C. The rigid, cool outer portion of the Earth composed of the crust and the rigid part of the mantle D. The rigid part of the upper mantle A. A semi-fluid portion of the upper mantle that supports overlying tectonic plates B. The outermost layer of the Earth, rigid and cool C. The rigid, cool outer portion of the Earth composed of the crust and the rigid part of the mantle D. The rigid part of the upper mantle

Explanation / Answer

Asthenosphere is A) a semi-fluid portion of the upper mantle that supports overlying tectonic plates.

Asthenosphere extends from 80km to 200km below the Earth's surface. Heat from the deep of the Earth keeps asthenosphere malleable and helps to move the tectonic plates or lithosphere above this layer.

Convection current generated within the upper mantle is thought to be another reason for the movement of plates. As a result of this current magma pushes upward from asthenosphere through volcanic vents and spreading centres and creates new crust. Convection also stresses tectonic plates and causes to move above the atmosphere.

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