Inner Core

The inner core is a solid, dense sphere with a radius of about 1,220 kilometers. It is believed to be composed mainly of iron and nickel, with temperatures reaching up to 5,700 degrees Celsius (10,300 degrees Fahrenheit). The immense pressure at the Earth's center keeps the inner core in a solid state, despite the high temperatures.

Outer Core

Surrounding the inner core is the outer core, which extends to a radius of about 3,400 kilometers. Unlike the inner core, the outer core is in a liquid state, with temperatures ranging from 4,300 to 5,700 degrees Celsius (7,800 to 10,300 degrees Fahrenheit). The movement of the molten iron and nickel in the outer core generates the Earth's magnetic field through a process known as the geodynamo effect.

Study Guide

To understand the Earth's core in more detail, consider the following study points:

Composition: What elements make up the Earth's core? What are the differences between the inner core and the outer core in terms of composition and state of matter?
Temperature and Pressure: How do the temperature and pressure change as you move from the outer core to the inner core? What factors contribute to the solid state of the inner core despite the high temperatures?
Magnetic Field: What role does the outer core play in generating the Earth's magnetic field? How does the movement of molten iron and nickel create a magnetic field through the geodynamo effect?
Importance: Why is the Earth's core essential for sustaining life on our planet? How does the core contribute to the Earth's overall structure and function?
Research: Explore recent scientific discoveries or theories related to the Earth's core. What ongoing research is being conducted to gain a deeper understanding of this crucial part of our planet?