In the context of crust, the main mineral constituents of the continental mass are _____.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Correct Answer: Option 1: Silica and Alumina
Explanation:
The Earth's uppermost layer, called the crust, is composed of a variety of minerals. Continental mass, which forms the main part of the land, is composed primarily of minerals such as silica and alumina. Therefore, it is abbreviated as 'sial' (Si for silica and Al for alumina).
Additional Facts:
Sima: The oceanic crust is composed primarily of silica (Si) and magnesium (Ma), called 'sima'.
NiFe: The Earth's innermost layer (core) is composed primarily of nickel (Ni) and iron, i.e., ferrous (Fe), called 'NiFe'.
Crust thickness: Its thickness in the continental mass is approximately 35 km, while at the oceanic surface it is only up to 5 km.
Possible questions for the upcoming exam:
What are the main mineral components of the oceanic crust?
(Answer: Silica and magnesium - Siam).
What metals make up the Earth's innermost layer, the core?
(Answer: Nickel and iron - NiFe).
What is the continental crust also known as?
(Answer: Sial).