Q:
What is the composition of the Earth's core?
A:
Quick Answer
Earth's core has two parts, a solid iron inner core and a molten outer core, which is composed of a nickel-iron alloy. The outer core begins about 1,800 miles under the crust.
Continue Reading
Credit:
Colin Anderson
Photographer's Choice
Getty Images
Full Answer
It is believed that the core also contains a large amount of gold and platinum, so much that if it was poured onto the surface it would cover the entire planet up to 1 1/2 feet. The inner core is solid and has a radius of about 760 miles. The outer core is about 1,400 miles thick and is mostly molten liquid. The entire core is about the size of the planet Mars.
Learn more about Layers of the EarthSources:
Related Questions
-
Q:
What are the four layers of the earth?
A: The Earth is divided into four layers: crust, mantle, outer core and inner core. The crust is the only layer of Earth that hosts life, as the mantle, inner... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How many layers does the Earth have?
A: The Earth consists of four layers: crust, mantle, outer core and inner core. Each layer has its own properties and characteristics that separates it from t... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What are the three layers of the earth?
A: The three layers of the earth, in order from outside to inside, are the crust, the mantle and the core. The mantle is the thickest and most massive layer, ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How hot is the center of the earth?
A: As of April 26, 2013, a French research team has estimated the temperature of the Earth’s inner core at 10,800 degrees Fahrenheit. This is 1,800 degrees ho... Full Answer >Filed Under:
