Final answer:
Differentiation is a gravitational process that separates a planet into layers: a dense core, a silicate mineral mantle, and a crust of lighter minerals. This structure results from the planet heating up during its formation, allowing heavy metals to sink and lighter materials to rise.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process by which a planet separates into a core, mantle, and crust is known as differentiation. This is a gravitational phenomenon where materials of different densities segregate within the planet's interior. During the early stages of a planet's formation, the interior becomes heated to the point where rocks melt, typically above 1300 K.
The Earth's crust is the outer layer, predominantly composed of silicon oxide and aluminum oxide, with continental crust being thicker and less dense than oceanic crust. The mantle lies between the Earth's crust and core and is made of silicate minerals. The core is the central part of the Earth, consisting of higher density materials like iron and nickel. This structure is preserved as the planet cools.