What is Earth made of? What are the physical properties of the different layers of Earth? We will explore the answers to these questions in this section.

The interior structure of the earth can be examined in two different ways: based on chemical composition or physical properties. When we study the chemical composition of the Earth, we are looking at the different elements and compounds that make up the Earth's layers. When we study the physical properties, we are considering properties like temperature, density, and phase of matter.

Chemical Composition of the Earth

If we cut this piece of fruit in half, we will see that it is made of three parts: 1) a very thin skin, 2) the flesh, where most of the mass of the fruit is contained, and 3) a seed of significant size located in the center.

If we cut the Earth, we would see that it, like the peach, is made of three parts: 1) a very thin crust on the outside, 2) the mantle, which is where most of the mass of the Earth is contained, and 3) a core of significant size in the center. Click on the labels in the diagram below to learn more about each layer.

Physical Properties of the Earth

Another way to study the Earth is to look at the physical properties of its layers. The Earth is divided into five main physical layers, the lithosphere, asthenosphere, mesosphere, outer core, and inner core. Click on the labels in the diagram below to learn more about each layer.

The image below compares the two different ways of studying the layers of Earth.