What term describes the solid masses of the continents, composed mainly of granite?

• A. Continental Crust
• B. Oceanic Crust
• C. Mantle
• D. Core

Answer: (A)

Continental crust is the solid masses of the continents, composed mainly of granitic rocks. This granitic makeup makes it less dense than oceanic crust, so it rides higher on the mantle and forms the landmasses we inhabit. It’s also thicker than oceanic crust, typically 30–50 km, which contributes to the elevated, buoyant nature of continents. Beneath it lies the mantle, a more ductile layer that supports the crust, while the inner Earth’s core sits far deeper and is not part of the crust at all. In contrast, oceanic crust is denser and basaltic and forms the sea floors, which helps explain why continents stand above oceans.