What is the state of matter of the outer core?

The outer core is classified as a liquid state of matter primarily due to the temperatures and pressures present within this layer of the Earth's interior. The outer core is located beneath the mantle and surrounds the inner core. At depths ranging from about 2,900 kilometers to 5,150 kilometers, temperatures can reach up to 4,000 to 5,500 degrees Celsius.

These extreme temperatures are sufficient to melt the iron and nickel that make up the outer core. As a result, the outer core is not solid like the inner core but rather exists in a liquid state. This movement of liquid metal is crucial for the generation of the Earth's magnetic field through the dynamo effect. Understanding the state of the outer core helps explain various geological phenomena, including plate tectonics and magnetism, showcasing the dynamic nature of the Earth's interior.