What is the inner core's approximate temperature?

Study for the Ontario Grade 9 Geography Exam. Prepare with interactive quizzes and multiple choice questions; each question includes insightful hints and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

The inner core of the Earth is primarily composed of iron and nickel and is believed to have an extremely high temperature, estimated to range from about 5200°C to 5700°C. The correct answer indicates 5200°C, which is within this accepted range and reflects the understanding that despite being solid due to the immense pressure at that depth, the temperatures are still extraordinarily high.

The temperature of the inner core is a topic of ongoing research, but many geophysical studies suggest that the heat arises from radioactive decay, residual heat from the planet's formation, and pressure-induced melting points. The high temperature contributes to the dynamics of the outer core, influencing the generation of Earth's magnetic field.

While options denoting lower temperatures do not align with current scientific understanding, the upper suggested levels (such as 5700°C) approach the maximum range but may not be as widely accepted in the scientific community as the lower figure of 5200°C. Hence, 5200°C is often considered a more common estimate for educational contexts.

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