The Crust

The Earth's crust is the outermost layer of our planet, composed mainly of solid rock. It is relatively thin compared to the Earth's entire structure, ranging from about 5 to 70 kilometers thick. The crust makes up the continents and ocean floors, providing the surface we walk on. It features a variety of geological formations such as mountains, valleys, and plains. The crust is divided into large pieces called tectonic plates that float on the semi-fluid mantle beneath. Movements of these plates cause earthquakes, volcanic activity, and shape the Earth's surface over geological time scales.