The asthenosphere is a relatively weak region of the upper mantle below the mechanically strong lithosphere. A seismic low-velocity zone often occurs in this region, particularly beneath oceanic lithosphere, but mechanical weakness and seismic speed are distinct properties.
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The asthenosphere is a zone within the Earth's mantle located beneath the lithosphere, which is the rigid outer layer of the Earth. It extends from about 100 kilometers (62 miles) to around 700 kilometers (435 miles) below the Earth's surface. The asthenosphere is characterized by its semi-fluid, ductile properties, allowing it to flow slowly over geological time scales.