What is the Asthenosphere Made of? — Reading Comprehension

The Earth is made of different layers, like an onion! The outermost layer where we live is called the crust. Right below the crust is the mantle. The mantle is super thick and makes up most of the Earth's volume.

Inside the mantle, there is a very special layer called the asthenosphere. The asthenosphere is about 100 to 250 miles below the Earth's surface. It's not a liquid like water, but it's not a solid like a rock either. Think of it like a very thick, gooey substance, kind of like warm taffy or silly putty. This special quality is what makes it so important!

The asthenosphere is made of rock that is so hot it's a little bit melted. Scientists call this molten rock or magma. This magma allows the rock to flow very, very slowly. Sitting on top of this soft layer is the lithosphere, which includes the crust and the very top, solid part of the mantle. The lithosphere is broken into huge pieces called tectonic plates.

Because the asthenosphere is so soft and flowing, the big, rigid tectonic plates on top of it can move around. This slow movement of the plates is what causes amazing things like earthquakes, volcanoes, and the formation of mountains. The asthenosphere acts like a conveyor belt, gently pushing the plates.

Fun Fact: The word "asthenosphere" comes from a Greek word that means "weak," which perfectly describes this soft, flowing layer of Earth!

What is the name of the special, soft layer in the Earth's mantle?

What is the outermost layer of the Earth called?

Why is the asthenosphere described as "gooey"?

What is the asthenosphere made of?

How does the asthenosphere get so hot?

If the asthenosphere was a hard, solid rock, what would happen?

Why is the asthenosphere like a "conveyor belt"?

Based on the passage, what likely happens when two plates collide?