View source for Earth's crust

== Introduction ==

The [[Earth's crust|Earth's crust]] is the outermost shell of the planet Earth. It is the thinnest of Earth's layers, comprising less than 1% of the planet's total volume, but plays a crucial role in our planet's history and future.

== Composition ==

The Earth's crust is composed primarily of [[igneous rock|igneous]], [[sedimentary rock|sedimentary]], and [[metamorphic rock|metamorphic rocks]]. It is also home to various [[mineral|minerals]] and [[soil|soils]], which provide the necessary nutrients for life to thrive.

[[Image:Detail-41147.jpg|thumb|center|A close-up view of igneous rock, showing its characteristic grainy texture and dark color.|class=only_on_mobile]]
[[Image:Detail-41148.jpg|thumb|center|A close-up view of igneous rock, showing its characteristic grainy texture and dark color.|class=only_on_desktop]]

== Structure ==

The Earth's crust is divided into two types: [[Oceanic crust|oceanic]] and [[Continental crust|continental crust]]. The oceanic crust, which underlies the ocean basins, is thinner and denser than the continental crust, which forms the continents.

== Formation ==

The Earth's crust was formed through a process known as [[Plate tectonics|plate tectonics]]. This process involves the movement and interaction of large plates of the Earth's lithosphere, leading to the formation of various geological features such as mountains, volcanoes, and oceanic trenches.

== Characteristics ==

The Earth's crust is characterized by its thinness, density, and composition. It is also marked by its dynamic nature, being constantly reshaped and reformed by the processes of plate tectonics.

== Importance ==

The Earth's crust plays a crucial role in supporting life on Earth. It provides the necessary conditions for the existence of life, including the presence of water, nutrients, and a stable environment.

== See Also ==

- [[Plate tectonics]]
- [[Lithosphere]]
- [[Mantle (geology)|Mantle]]

[[Category:Geology]]
[[Category:Earth]]
[[Category:Earth's crust]]