Page 78 - Science Course 2 (Book 2)

Mo10-L1b: What is the Structure of the Geosphere?

The dense, metallic center of Earth is called the core. SUMMARY
What is the Structure of the Geosphere?

The three main layers of the geosphere are the
Crust crust, the mantle, and the core.
Upper Mantle

Lower Mantle
Outer Core

Inner Core

The core is made mainly of iron with some nickel
and traces of other elements.

Due to the high temperatures near the center of the
Earth, the outer layer of the core is liquid.

Scientists theorize that the movement of liquid iron
in the outer core produces Earth’s magnetic f eld.

The layers of the geosphere have different
densities and chemical compositions.

Inside the outer core is a sphere of solid metal.

Despite the scorching heat, the metal in the inner
core is not melted.

The high pressure
from the
masses of all
Earth’s layers
compresses
the inner
core, making
it solid.

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