The crust that forms continents is called continental crust. It is thicker and less dense than oceanic crust, the crust that forms the ocean floor.

Here are some key characteristics of continental crust:

* Thickness: It ranges from 30 to 70 kilometers (19 to 43 miles) thick, significantly thicker than oceanic crust, which is only about 5 to 10 kilometers (3 to 6 miles) thick.

* Composition: It is primarily composed of igneous and metamorphic rocks, like granite, gneiss, and schist. It also contains sedimentary rocks, which form from the accumulation of eroded materials.

* Density: It is less dense than oceanic crust, which is why it floats higher on the mantle. This is why continents rise above sea level.

* Age: Continental crust is much older than oceanic crust. Some continental rocks are over 4 billion years old, while the oldest oceanic crust is only about 200 million years old.

Continental crust plays a crucial role in shaping the Earth's surface. It is responsible for the formation of continents, mountains, and other landforms. It also provides a foundation for life on Earth.