Earth and planetary interiors

Earth's interior consists of layers: a solid core at the center, primarily made of iron and nickel, surrounded by a semi-solid mantle of dense rock that slowly flows. Above the mantle is the crust, the thin outer layer we live on. The core generates Earth's magnetic field, while movements in the mantle drive plate tectonics, shaping continents and oceans. Planets have similar layered structures, with material compositions and states varying based on size, composition, and temperature. Understanding these layers helps us learn about planetary formation, geothermal processes, and Earth's dynamic nature.