Definition

Relating to the soft layer of the Earth's upper mantle that allows tectonic plates to move.

Example

The asthenospheric layer plays a crucial role in plate tectonics.

Conversation

Did you know that the Earth's crust floats on the asthenospheric layer?

Really? I had no idea how that worked!

Yeah, it's fascinating how the asthenospheric layer affects tectonic plates.

That makes sense; it must be why we have earthquakes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Asthenospheric → It is formed from "astheno-" (from Greek "asthenēs", meaning weak) and "spheric" (from Greek "sphaira", meaning sphere). The term refers to the weak, plastic layer of the Earth's mantle that behaves like a viscous fluid over geological time scales.

Memory Tip

Think of 'weak' ('astheno-') to remember that 'asthenospheric' describes a layer of the Earth that is not rigid but rather pliable like a fluid.

Visually Confused Words