What Is the Temperature of the Outer Core?
Last Updated Apr 13, 2020 12:26:11 AM ET
National Geographic reports that the temperature of the Earth’s outer core is estimated to be between 7,200 and 9,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Due to this high temperature, the outer core is liquid despite being made up of iron and nickel.
The high temperature of the outer core is the result of decaying radioactive elements and frictional heating from denser materials sinking to the center of the earth. Moreover, the Earth still retains some of the heat from when it was formed. To determine the temperature of the outer core, scientists first estimate the density and thickness of the Earth’s layers by capturing and analyzing seismic waves from earthquakes. They then use computer models and laboratory experiments to infer the temperature.
More From Reference

What Are the Steps of Presidential Impeachment?

What Does George Soros' Open Society Foundations Network Fund?

The History of the United States' Golden Presidential Dollars

How the COVID-19 Pandemic Has Changed Schools and Education in Lasting Ways

Fact Check: Is the COVID-19 Vaccine Safe?

How Does the 25th Amendment Work — and When Should It Be Enacted?