The Earth's core: a geophysical approach

Earth’s core is the planet’s innermost layer, composed mainly of iron and nickel. It has two parts: a hot, solid inner core and a surrounding liquid outer core. The core’s extreme heat and movement generate Earth’s magnetic field, which protects us from solar radiation. Scientists study the core through methods like seismic waves from earthquakes, which change speed and direction when passing through different materials, revealing the core’s structure and properties. Understanding the core helps explain Earth’s magnetic field, how our planet has cooled over time, and the dynamic processes driving geological activity.