the layer of the earth that is in a semi-molten state
The layer of the earth that is in a semi-molten state
Answer: The layer of the Earth that is in a semi-molten state is called the mantle. The Earth’s mantle is situated between the outer core and the Earth’s crust. It extends from a depth of about 30 to 2,900 kilometers below the Earth’s surface. The mantle is predominantly solid, but it is capable of flowing - similar to a very viscous fluid - over long periods of time, which gives it a semi-molten characteristic. The heat and pressure within the mantle cause rocks to become ductile and flow slowly over the long timescales of geologic processes. This semi-molten state is crucial for the movement of tectonic plates, which leads to various geological phenomena like earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountain ranges.