Asthenophere is
(a) Partially molten
(b) Completely molten
(c) Solid plates embedded in molten mass
(d) All the above

Options

A. Partially molten
B. Completely molten
C. Solid plates embedded in molten mass
D. All the above.

Answer

To solve the question regarding the asthenosphere, let's analyze each option step by step:

1. **Understanding the Asthenosphere**:
- The asthenosphere is a layer of the Earth's mantle located beneath the lithosphere. It is characterized by its physical properties and behavior.

2. **Evaluating Option A (Partially molten)**:
- The asthenosphere is indeed partially molten. It is not completely solid, but it also does not consist entirely of molten rock. This option is correct.

3. **Evaluating Option B (Completely molten)**:
- The asthenosphere is not completely molten. While it has molten characteristics, it retains solid components. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

4. **Evaluating Option C (Solid plates embedded in molten mass)**:
- The asthenosphere contains solid plates that are embedded within a more fluid, molten-like environment. This description accurately reflects the nature of the asthenosphere, making this option correct.

5. **Evaluating Option D (All the above)**:
- Since options A and C are correct but option B is incorrect, option D cannot be correct.

**Conclusion**:
The correct answer is **(a) Partially molten** and **(c) Solid plates embedded in molten mass**. However, since the question asks for a single choice, the best answer is **(c)**.