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mantle science definition
- The layer of the Earth between the crust and the core. It is about 2,900 km (1,798 mi) thick and consists mainly of magnesium-iron silicate minerals, such as olivine and pyroxene. It has an upper, partially molten part, which is about 660 km (409 mi) thick, and a lower, solid part. The upper mantle is the source of magma and volcanic lava.
- The layer of soft tissue that covers the body of a clam, oyster, or other mollusk and secretes the material that forms the shell.
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