GEOL 1121L Lab 2 (2026/2027) (PDF) | Earth Interior | Intro to Geology | GSU

INSTANT PDF DOWNLOAD This GEOL 1121L Lab 2 Guide is designed for students taking Introduction to Geology at Georgia State University (GSU). Lab 2 focuses on understanding the internal structure of the Earth, how scientists study regions we cannot directly observe, and the physical properties that control geologic processes. This lab builds foundational knowledge needed for plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanism, and mantle dynamics. 1. Layers of the Earth Crust (continental vs. oceanic) Mantle (upper & lower) Core (outer liquid core, inner solid core) Distinguished by composition, density, and physical state. ️ 2. Physical vs. Compositional Layers Compositional: Crust Mantle Core Mechanical (Physical): Lithosphere Asthenosphere Mesosphere Outer core Inner core Mechanical layers explain plate motion. 3. How We Know Earth’s Interior Seismic waves (P-waves & S-waves) Refraction and reflection Shadow zones Density calculations Meteorite comparisons Seismology provides indirect evidence of deep Earth structure. 4. Seismic Wave Behavior P-waves travel through solids & liquids S-waves travel only through solids Wave speed changes reveal layer boundaries Core-mantle boundary identified by wave patterns Critical to understanding earthquakes and Earth structure. 5. Temperature & Pressure with Depth Geothermal gradient Increasing pressure affects rock behavior High temperature causes mantle convection These factors drive internal energy and plate tectonics. 6. Mantle Convection Heat transfer mechanism Hot material rises, cool material sinks Drives plate movement Links Earth’s interior to surface processes.