The Core

The core is Earth’s innermost layer, composed mainly of solid iron and nickel, situated beneath the mantle. This central sphere extends from about 2,900 kilometers below the surface to Earth's center, approximately 6,371 kilometers deep. The core is divided into a solid inner core and a liquid outer core. The movement of the liquid outer core generates Earth's magnetic field, which protects us from harmful solar radiation. The core's intense heat and pressure influence geological processes like plate tectonics and volcanic activity. Understanding the core helps scientists learn about Earth's formation, magnetic field, and internal dynamics.