Earth's Core

The Earth's core is the innermost part of the Earth, located below the mantle. It is divided into two main parts: the inner core and the outer core.

1. Inner Core

The inner core is a solid sphere made primarily of iron and nickel. It is extremely hot, with temperatures reaching up to 9,000 degrees Fahrenheit. The immense pressure from the layers above keeps the inner core in a solid state despite the high temperatures.

2. Outer Core

The outer core is a liquid layer also made of iron and nickel. It surrounds the inner core and is responsible for generating the Earth's magnetic field through the movement of molten metal. This movement, known as convection, creates electric currents that produce the magnetic field that protects the Earth from solar winds and cosmic radiation.

Study Guide

1. What are the two main parts of the Earth's core?
2. What are the primary elements that make up the Earth's core?
3. What is the state of the inner core and what keeps it in that state?
4. What is the role of the outer core in generating the Earth's magnetic field?
5. How does the movement of molten metal in the outer core create the Earth's magnetic field?

Understanding the Earth's core is crucial in comprehending the dynamics of the Earth's internal structure and its influence on the planet's magnetic field and geological processes.

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