Which crust type is primarily granitic and less dense than oceanic crust?

Which crust type is primarily granitic and less dense than oceanic crust?

• A. Oceanic Crust
• B. Continental Crust
• C. Mantle
• D. Outer Core

Answer: (B)

Continental crust is the part of Earth’s outer shell that is mainly made of granitic rocks, which are felsic and rich in silica minerals like quartz and feldspar. These minerals form lighter, less dense rocks, so the average density of continental crust is lower than that of oceanic crust, which is dominated by basaltic, mafic rocks with more iron and magnesium. Because less-dense material floats higher on the mantle, continental crust sits above oceanic crust and forms the large landmasses we call continents. The mantle lies beneath the crust, while the outer core is not a crust at all, so it doesn’t fit the description.

Continental crust is the part of Earth’s outer shell that is mainly made of granitic rocks, which are felsic and rich in silica minerals like quartz and feldspar. These minerals form lighter, less dense rocks, so the average density of continental crust is lower than that of oceanic crust, which is dominated by basaltic, mafic rocks with more iron and magnesium. Because less-dense material floats higher on the mantle, continental crust sits above oceanic crust and forms the large landmasses we call continents. The mantle lies beneath the crust, while the outer core is not a crust at all, so it doesn’t fit the description.