Consider the following statements about the surface of the earth: 1. ...
Statement 1: The upper part consists of granitic rocks and forms the continents.
Statement 2: Its main mineral constituents are silica and magnesium so it is collectively referred to as the sima.
Explanation:
The surface of the Earth is composed of different layers, including the uppermost layer called the crust. The crust is further divided into two types: continental crust and oceanic crust.
Continental Crust:
- The continental crust is primarily composed of granitic rocks, which are lighter in color and less dense compared to the rocks found in the oceanic crust.
- Granitic rocks are rich in silica and aluminum, and they have lower concentrations of iron, magnesium, and calcium.
- The continental crust is thicker and less dense than the oceanic crust.
- It forms the landmasses or continents that we see on the surface of the Earth.
Oceanic Crust:
- The oceanic crust is primarily composed of basaltic rocks, which are denser and darker in color compared to granitic rocks.
- Basaltic rocks are rich in silica and magnesium, and they have higher concentrations of iron, calcium, and sodium.
- The oceanic crust is thinner and more dense than the continental crust.
- It forms the ocean floor and is found beneath the oceans.
Summary:
- Statement 1 is correct. The upper part of the Earth's crust consists of granitic rocks and forms the continents.
- Statement 2 is incorrect. While the oceanic crust is primarily composed of basaltic rocks rich in silica and magnesium, the continental crust is primarily composed of granitic rocks rich in silica and aluminum. The term "sima" is not used to collectively refer to the Earth's crust; instead, it is used to refer to the lower layer of the Earth's mantle.
Therefore, the correct answer is option 'A' (1 only).