What is the outer layer of the Earth known as?

The outer layer of the Earth is known as the crust. It is the thin, solid outermost shell that forms the surface of the Earth. The crust is where we live, and it includes the continents and the ocean floor. It is composed of various types of rock and is geologically active, characterized by the presence of tectonic plates that can move, resulting in phenomena such as earthquakes and volcanic activity.

Understanding the composition and characteristics of the crust is essential in earth sciences, as it plays a critical role in supporting ecosystems and human activities. The crust is relatively cool compared to the deeper layers of the Earth, which include the mantle and core. While the mantle lies directly beneath the crust and is composed of semi-solid rock that can flow slowly over time, and the core consists of the innermost layers of molten metal, they are not part of the outer layer. The asthenosphere, which is part of the upper mantle, is also beneath the crust and provides a less rigid support structure for the tectonic plates.