Science Olympiad Dynamic Planet Practice Test

What is the thickness of the outer core layer?

1. 1,800 km

2. 2,300 km

3. 3,000 km

4. 4,000 km

The correct answer is: 2,300 km

The outer core is a significant layer of the Earth's structure, lying beneath the mantle and above the inner core. It is primarily composed of molten iron and nickel, which contributes to the Earth's magnetic field due to the movement of these conductive liquids. The thickness of the outer core is estimated to be around 2,300 kilometers. This measurement can vary slightly in different models of Earth's structure, but it typically falls within this range. Understanding the dimensions of the outer core is crucial in geology and geophysics for several reasons, including the study of plate tectonics, seismic activity, and the generation of the Earth's magnetic field. The outer core's thickness is a critical factor in these processes, particularly as it serves as the boundary between the solid inner core and the more rigid mantle above it, influencing geological and geodynamic phenomena.