Planet Earth is approximately 4,000 miles from the surface to the center. Earth is made up of different layers that all have specific conditions and a unique composition.
Outer Core
Is a fluid layer about 1,500 miles thick and composed of mostly iron and nickel that lies above Earth's solid inner core and below its mantle. Its outer boundary lies about 1,800 miles beneath Earth's surface. Unlike the inner core, the outer core is liquid. Estimates for the temperature of the outer core are about 4,940°F - 13,940 °F and its nickel–iron fluid is thought to be the source of the Earth's magnetic field.
Inner Core
Is the innermost layer of the Earth. It is primarily a solid ball with a radius of about 760 miles, which is about 20% of the Earth's radius and is believed to consist primarily of an iron–nickel. The Earth's inner core has the greatest density and temperature of all of Earth's layers.
Layers of Earth
We may marvel at mountains that tower above our heads or hold our breath when confronted with dizzying views of canyons, but none of that would be possible without the inner Earth.
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Topic Tips
- Earth's outer core is made up of liquid metal and is believed to be responsible for Earth's magnetic field.
- Earth's inner core is the hottest, most dense layer and is made up of solid metal due to the extreme pressure.