Lithosphere: The lithosphere and the asthenosphere

The lithosphere and the asthenosphere are the two layers of the Earth closest to the surface. These layers differ significantly in their physical properties, composition, and behavior. Learn about the lithosphere , the outermost solid layer of the Earth, and its two types: oceanic and continental. Find out how it is composed of crust and mantle, and how it moves due to plate tectonics. Learn what lithosphere is, how it is composed of crust and upper mantle, and what are the two types of lithosphere : oceanic and continental. Find out how lithosphere interacts with atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere through pedosphere. Lithosphere, rigid, rocky outer layer of Earth , consisting of the crust and the solid outermost layer of the upper mantle. It extends to a depth of about 60 miles (100 km). The lithosphere is broken up into about a dozen separate, rigid blocks, or plates.