Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
sial
noun
/ˈsaɪ.əl/
Definition
Sial refers to the upper layer of the Earth’s crust that is primarily composed of silicate minerals, rich in aluminum and silica, and is found in continental areas.
Examples
- The Himalayan mountain range is primarily composed of sial, showcasing its rich geological structure.
- Geologists study sial to understand continental formation and movement over time.
Meaning
In geology, sial represents the more buoyant part of the Earth’s crust that floats on the denser layer known as sima, which is primarily composed of silica and magnesium.
Synonyms
- Continental crust
- Upper crust
