How thick is the lithosphere?

The lithosphere varies in thickness depending on where you are on Earth! On average, it’s about 100 kilometers thick, but it can be as thin as 5 kilometers beneath the oceanic crust and up to 200 kilometers beneath some continental regions. Isn’t it fascinating that this rigid outer layer holds the secrets to tectonic activity and can shape our landscapes? When it comes to the lithosphere, remember that it acts as a hard shell over the asthenosphere, which is more fluid and allows it to move. This movement is what drives plate tectonics! So, while the lithosphere may seem solid, it’s constantly on the move, influencing everything from earthquakes to the formation of mountains.