Passage VI
Earth's interior is divided into 4 primary layers of different chemical composition: the crust, mantle, outer core, and inner core. Figure 1 shows the 4 layers, their depths, and 2 named layer boundaries (Moho and Gutenberg Discontinuity). The lithosphere, asthenosphere, and transition zone boundaries were determined using speed changes in S waves, a type of earthquake wave. Speed changes indicate a phase and/or density change of material inside Earth.
Figure 2 shows how P-wave (another earthquake wave type) and S-wave velocities and density change with depth inside Earth.
Figure 3 shows how Earth's temperature changes with depth.
30. S waves do not travel through liquids. Based on this fact and the data provided, which of Earth's layers is most likely completely liquid?
Your Answer is
Correct Answer is J
Explanation
Looking at figure 2, the dotted line representing S-wave velocity does not appear in the outer core, indicating that the S-wave in the outer core cannot propagate, that is, the outer core is completely composed of liquid