Study for the Dynamic Planet Test with our detailed quizzes. Master concepts using flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with insights and solutions. Prepare effectively for your Science Olympiad!

Practice this question and more.


What layer lies beneath the Earth's surface and constitutes about 84% of Earth's volume?

  1. Crust

  2. Core

  3. Asthenosphere

  4. Mantle

The correct answer is: Mantle

The layer that lies beneath the Earth's surface and constitutes about 84% of Earth's volume is the mantle. The mantle is situated between the Earth's crust above it and the core below it. It is composed of solid silicate rock that is capable of flow, allowing for the movement of tectonic plates and influencing geologic activities such as volcanism and earthquakes. The mantle's thickness averages around 2,900 kilometers, making it the thickest layer of the Earth. This expansive volume plays a critical role in the dynamics of the planet’s geology over geological time scales.