What layer of the Earth is located between the mantle and the inner core?

Study for the CIP4 Science Progression Test. Dive into flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get exam-ready today!

The outer core is the layer of the Earth that lies between the mantle and the inner core. It is composed primarily of liquid iron and nickel, and it plays a crucial role in the generation of Earth's magnetic field through the motion of this molten metal. The outer core is significant because its movement contributes to the dynamo effect, which is essential for maintaining the magnetic field that protects the Earth from solar and cosmic radiation.

The mantle is the layer directly above the outer core and is solid, though it behaves as a viscous fluid over geological timescales. The inner core, located beneath the outer core, is a solid mass primarily composed of iron and nickel and is extremely hot, with temperatures comparable to those on the surface of the Sun. The crust is the outermost layer of the Earth, which sits above the mantle and does not directly interact with the core layers. The upper mantle is part of the mantle itself and thus does not occupy the position between the mantle and the inner core.

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