What is the thickness range of the lithosphere?

Study for Texas AandM University GEOL101 Exam. Explore geology concepts with multiple choice questions, hints, and detailed explanations. Enhance your readiness for success!

The lithosphere, which includes the Earth's crust and the uppermost part of the mantle, typically has a thickness that ranges from approximately 100 kilometers to 250 kilometers. This range accounts for variations according to location and geological conditions. In continental regions, the lithosphere tends to be thicker due to the presence of lighter, granitic continental crust. In contrast, oceanic lithosphere is generally thinner, averaging about 50-100 kilometers, but even with this variability, the overall definition of lithosphere thickness broadly falls within the 100-250 km range indicated in the correct choice. Understanding this helps in grasping the structure of the Earth and the relationship between different geological layers.

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