Multiple choice

Why is rock located in the asthenosphere weaker and softer than rock in the lithosphere?

  1. it is cooler in the asthenosphere

  2. it is hotter in the asthenosphere

  3. it is made out of nickel

  4. it is made out of magma

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

The asthenosphere is hotter than the lithosphere because it lies deeper within the Earth. This higher temperature allows the rock to behave plastically and flow slowly, making it weaker and softer than the rigid lithosphere above it.