lithosphere
noun
the solid portion of the earth (distinguished from atmosphere, hydrosphere).
lithospheric
-
a word derived from
lithosphere.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Scientists have generally focused on two main possibilities: lithospheric buoyancy forces, mantle traction forces, or some combination of the two.
From Science Daily ● Sep. 1, 2026
"We confirmed previous ideas that lithospheric buoyancy forces are driving the rift, but we're bringing new insight that anomalous deformation can happen in East Africa."
From Science Daily ● Sep. 1, 2026
The Mendocino Triple Junction is the meeting place of the Gorda, Pacific and North American plates, massive moving slabs of Earth’s crust that are also known as lithospheric plates.
From Seattle Times ● Dec. 21, 2022
Active margins are places where the oceanic and continental lithospheric tectonic plates meet and move relative to each other, such as the western coasts of North and South America.
From Textbooks ● Jan. 1, 2017
It is assumed that the relative lack of strength of the partial melting zone facilitates the sliding of the lithospheric plates.
From Textbooks ● Jan. 1, 2015
