Multiple choice

Which of the following factors help(s) in the study of the earth’s interior?

  1. Density of the earth
  2. Seismic properties
  3. Analogy from outer space

  1. Only 2

  2. Only 1 and 2

  3. 1, 2 and 3

  4. Only 2 and 3
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

Knowledge of the earth's interior is based on the reactions of seismic waves from earthquakes; the density and state of materials that these seismic waves encounter. Some of this understanding is based on our current understanding of how the earth formed - mainly, how our planet cooled down and formed; how the heavier materials such as metals sunk to the center, etc. Rock that is torn off and expelled by volcanism is studied as another indicator of what lies below the surface. Another clue lies in meteorites that have landed on earth. The study of earth's magnetic field and gravitational properties also indicate or strongly infer what lies deep in earth's interior. 

Keep practicing — related questions