Q:
What Is the Temperature of the Outer Core?
A:
Quick Answer
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.
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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.
Learn more about Layers of the EarthRelated Questions
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Q:
What Is the Temperature of Earth's Inner Core?
A: The temperature of Earth's inner core is estimated to be between 9,000 to 13,000 degrees Fahrenheit, as stated by National Geographic. The planet's innermo... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How Thick Is the Outer Core?
A: According to National Geographic, the outer core of the Earth is 2,300 kilometers (1,430 miles) thick. The outer core is mostly composed of iron and nickel... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How Deep Is the Outer Core of Earth?
A: The outer core of the Earth begins about 1,800 miles below the Earth's surface and is between 1,370 and 1,430 miles thick. It is composed of liquid iron an... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Is Mantle Convection?
A: Mantle conviction is the process in which heat is transferred from the Earth's core to its surface; heat is released from the core and rises, causing tempe... Full Answer >Filed Under:
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