Continental crust

What is Continental Crust?

Continental crust is the rocky layer that makes up the land we live on and the shallow parts of the ocean close to land, called continental shelves. It is lighter than the crust under the oceans because it has more aluminium silicates, which people call sial. This lighter weight helps it float above the ocean floor.

Land and Hidden Parts

Most of the continental crust is dry land that rises above sea level. But some parts are hidden under the water. For example, a place called Zealandia is mostly under the Pacific Ocean, with only small parts like New Zealand showing above the water.

Thick and Important

The continental crust is much thicker than the ocean floor, ranging from 25 to 70 kilometers thick. This thickness helps it stay above water and gives us the land we live on. It covers about 41% of Earth's surface and plays a big role in shaping our world.