Question

why is the inner core solid and outer core molten?

Answer 1

Dear Student,

The inner core of the Earth is solid while the outer core remains molten because of the following reasons -

• The inner core is made up of iron and nickel that do not melt easily.
• Though the inner core is hotter than the outer core, the pressure is higher in the inner core. The increased pressure enhances the melting point of Iron. As a result, the inner core remains solidified.
• The inner core began cooling and solidifying much earlier than the outer core.