Question

question: the earths crust and upper layer of the mantle are collectively called ____. answer options: select one of four the lithosphere pangea subduction zones the athenosphere

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• "the lithosphere": Defined as the rigid outer layer of the Earth, including the crust and the upper mantle.
• "Pangea": A supercontinent that existed long ago, not related to the crust - mantle layer.
• "subduction zones": Areas where one tectonic plate moves under another, not a layer.
• "the athenosphere" (likely a misspelling of "asthenosphere"): The semi - fluid layer below the lithosphere, not including the crust.

So the correct option is the one that matches the definition of the crust and upper mantle collective.

Answer:

A. the lithosphere