Purchase Solution

Internal Structure of the Earth

Not what you're looking for?

Ask Custom Question

How can scientists determine the internal structure of the Earth if they can't actually go there? The depth of the deepest mines and wells on Earth is only a tiny fraction of the earth's diameter. Describe one of the methods used to determine the inner structure of the Earth. Could similar methods be used on the planet Mars? How about the planet Jupiter?

Purchase this Solution

Solution Summary

The expert examines internal structure of the Earth.

Solution Preview

Seismology, which is the science of analysis of sound waves in the Earth, is essentially the dominant source of knowledge about the Earth's internal structure.

Acoustic (sound) waves are partially reflected by boundaries between various layers due to the differences in the speed of the sound waves in different media. There are methods of detecting such echos by receivers spread over large areas, analyzing them, and deducing 3D images of structure deep underground.

Some acoustic waves are created by ...

Purchase this Solution


Free BrainMass Quizzes
The Moon

Test your knowledge of moon phases and movement.

Classical Mechanics

This quiz is designed to test and improve your knowledge on Classical Mechanics.

Intro to the Physics Waves

Some short-answer questions involving the basic vocabulary of string, sound, and water waves.

Introduction to Nanotechnology/Nanomaterials

This quiz is for any area of science. Test yourself to see what knowledge of nanotechnology you have. This content will also make you familiar with basic concepts of nanotechnology.

Variables in Science Experiments

How well do you understand variables? Test your knowledge of independent (manipulated), dependent (responding), and controlled variables with this 10 question quiz.