Question

The lithosphere is

• A. the larger waterbodies on the earth.
• B. the rigid, outermost shell of the earth, composed of the crust and the brittle upper mantle
• C. the gaseous envelope that surrounds the earth
• D. the sphere where life exists

Hint:

Associate the Greek root ``lithos'' (stone) directly with rock and land.
This simple root connection will immediately lead you to the solid, rocky outermost shell of the Earth.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
We need to identify the correct geological and scientific definition of the earth's ``lithosphere'' from the given choices.

Step 2: Key Concepts and Earth Spheres:
The earth is divided into several interconnected spheres:
1.

Hydrosphere: All water bodies (Option A).
2.

Atmosphere: The gaseous envelope (Option C).
3.

Biosphere: The global ecological system integrating all living beings (Option D).
4.

Lithosphere: The solid, rocky outer layer of the earth (Option B).

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

• Composition: The word ``lithosphere'' is derived from the Greek ``lithos'' meaning stone.
It comprises the entire crust of the earth and the uppermost part of the mantle, which behaves as a rigid, brittle solid.

• Tectonic Activity: The lithosphere is fractured into major and minor tectonic plates that slide over the hot, ductile asthenosphere below.

• Contrasting Options:
- Option (A) defines the hydrosphere.
- Option (C) defines the atmosphere.
- Option (D) defines the biosphere.


Step 4: Final Answer:
Therefore, the correct definition of the lithosphere is provided in Option (B).