Core

The core is the innermost layer of the Earth, located beneath the mantle. It is made up of two main parts: the outer core and the inner core.

Outer Core

The outer core is a liquid layer composed of molten iron and nickel. It is located beneath the Earth's mantle and is responsible for generating the Earth's magnetic field through the movement of the molten metal.

Inner Core

The inner core is a solid, dense sphere made primarily of iron and nickel. Despite the extreme heat of the inner core, the immense pressure keeps the iron and nickel in a solid state. The inner core is estimated to have a temperature of over 9,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

Study Guide

1. What are the two main parts of the Earth's core?
   • The outer core
   • The inner core
2. What is the outer core made of?

   The outer core is composed of molten iron and nickel.

3. How does the outer core contribute to the Earth's magnetic field?

   The movement of molten metal in the outer core generates the Earth's magnetic field.

4. What is the temperature of the inner core?

   The inner core is estimated to have a temperature of over 9,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

[Core] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• MagnetsScience • Second Grade