What is the Mohorovičić discontinuity (Moho) and what does it signify?

Earths Structure And Layers Questions Medium



80 Short 46 Medium 47 Long Answer Questions Question Index

What is the Mohorovičić discontinuity (Moho) and what does it signify?

The Mohorovičić discontinuity, also known as the Moho, is a boundary that separates the Earth's crust from the underlying mantle. It was discovered by the Croatian seismologist Andrija Mohorovičić in 1909. The Moho is characterized by a significant increase in seismic wave velocity, specifically the primary waves (P-waves), as they pass from the crust into the mantle.

The Moho signifies a change in composition and physical properties between the Earth's crust and mantle. It marks the transition from the relatively thin and rigid outer layer, known as the crust, to the more dense and plastic layer beneath, known as the mantle. The crust is composed mainly of solid rocks, while the mantle consists of semi-solid or viscous materials.

The Moho is significant because it provides valuable information about the structure and composition of the Earth's interior. By studying seismic waves and their behavior at the Moho, scientists can infer the thickness and density of the crust, as well as gain insights into the processes occurring within the mantle. It also helps in understanding the tectonic activity and the formation of various geological features on the Earth's surface, such as mountains, volcanoes, and earthquakes.