By analogy to Russian nesting dolls, our “seismic matryoshkas” have multiple layers that can be removed by the audience to explore the structures present deep within our planet and to learn about ongoing dynamic processes. In addition, we have applied our workflow to models of crustal thickness, dynamic topography, the geoid and seismic tomography. The resulting globes provide a powerful way to explain the importance of plate tectonics in shaping a planet and linking surface features to deeper dynamic processes. Some of our most effective models are simply exaggerated planetary topography in 3D, including Earth, Mars, and the Moon. In this contribution, we detail our workflow and provide examples of different models that we have developed with suggestions for topics that can be discussed in teaching and public engagement settings. The workflow uses only open source and free-to-use software, and the resulting models print easily and effectively on a cheap (<$300) desktop 3D printer. This is particularly effective for long-wavelength (>500 km) fields. We have developed a simple method for portraying scalar fields by 3D printing modified globes of surface topography, representing the parameter of interest as additional, exaggerated topography. Modern 3D printing techniques help to visualise these and other concepts that are difficult to grasp, such as the intangible structures in the deep Earth. However, as teaching aids and for public engagement, they offer little impact. Measurements and models of global geophysical parameters such as potential fields, seismic velocity models and dynamic topography are well-represented as traditional contoured and/or coloured maps. 2Independent Researcher, Egham, United Kingdom.1Department of Earth Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, United Kingdom.The layer beneath the ocean bed is made of oceanic crust, which is about 8km thick and made mainly from a rock called basalt.īy studying rocks and meteorites (rocks from space), scientists believe the Earth is about 4.Paula Koelemeijer 1 * and Jeff Winterbourne 2 Land is made of continental crust, which is 8km to 70km thick and made mostly from a rock called granite. The Earth’s surface is covered by its thinnest layer, the crust. CrustĬomposition: Oceanic crust made up of iron, oxygen, silicon, magnesium and aluminium.Ĭontinental crust made up of granite, sedimentary rocks and metamorphic rocks. The lower part of the upper mantle is made from both solid and melted rock (liquid), while the rock in the upper region is stiffer, because it’s cooler. This layer is up to 670km below the Earth’s surface. The rock is hot enough to melt, but is solid because of the pressure pushing down on it. The lower mantle is found between 670km and 2,890km below the surface, and is made from solid rock. Lower MantleĬomposition: iron, oxygen, silicon, magnesium and aluminium The outer core flows around the centre of the Earth, and the movement of the metals creates our planet’s magnetic field. This liquid layer of iron and nickel is 5,150km deep. Outer CoreĬomposition: iron, nickel, sulphur and oxygen Made mainly of iron, the temperature of the ball is 5,000☌ to 6,000☌ – that’s up to 6,000 times hotter than our atmosphere and scorching enough to make metal melt! The metal at the inner core stays solid because of the incredible pressure surrounding it. The Earth’s inner core is a huge metal ball, 2,500km wide. Packed full of fun features, jaw-dropping facts and awe-inspiring photos – it’ll keep you entertained for hours!įind our magazine in all good newsagents, or become a subscriber and have it delivered to your door! Ask your parents to check out the ‘Subscribe’ tab on our website! National Geographic Kids is an exciting monthly read for planet-passionate boys and girls, aged 6-13!
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