What is the dense sphere of solid iron and nickel at Earth's center?

Study for the Dynamic Earth Test. Try our practice tests and quizzes with flashcards and detailed explanations. Prepare thoroughly with our comprehensive learning resources and ensure success on your exam!

Multiple Choice

What is the dense sphere of solid iron and nickel at Earth's center?

Explanation:
In Earth’s interior, extreme pressures at the center keep iron-nickel in a solid state, even though temperatures are incredibly high. That solid sphere is the inner core. The core has two parts: a solid inner core and a surrounding liquid outer core. The inner core’s density is very high because it’s made of iron-nickel alloy, roughly 12.8 to 13 g per cubic centimeter. The outer core, by contrast, is liquid iron-nickel and flows, which helps generate Earth’s magnetic field. Above the core lies the mantle and the crust, which are made of less dense silicate rocks. So the dense, solid sphere at the center is the inner core.

In Earth’s interior, extreme pressures at the center keep iron-nickel in a solid state, even though temperatures are incredibly high. That solid sphere is the inner core. The core has two parts: a solid inner core and a surrounding liquid outer core. The inner core’s density is very high because it’s made of iron-nickel alloy, roughly 12.8 to 13 g per cubic centimeter. The outer core, by contrast, is liquid iron-nickel and flows, which helps generate Earth’s magnetic field. Above the core lies the mantle and the crust, which are made of less dense silicate rocks. So the dense, solid sphere at the center is the inner core.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy