Chapter 9: Problem 14

The inner core of the Earth is at a higher temperature than the outer core. Why, then, is the inner core solid and the outer core molten instead of the other way around?

Short Answer

Expert verified

The inner core remains solid due its high pressure, despite being at a higher temperature than the outer core. The intense pressure exerted on the inner core keeps it in a solid state. The outer core, while at a lower temperature, is also at a significantly lower pressure, which allows it to remain in a molten state.

Step by step solution

Understanding the Structure of the Earth

The Earth is composed of several layers, each with different temperature and pressure conditions. These layers from outermost to innermost are: the crust, mantle, outer core, and inner core. The outer core is in a molten state while the inner core is solid.

Understanding Phase changes

In general, substances change from solid to liquid state when the temperature increases. However, this isn't the only condition that impacts the state of substances. Pressure also plays a significant role in determining the state of a material.

Applying the Phase Change Concept to Earth's Core

The inner core of the Earth is at a higher pressure than the outer core due to the weight of the overlying rock layers and the gravitational force exerted on it towards the center of the Earth. This high pressure aids to keep the inner core in a solid state despite it being at a higher temperature than the outer core, which is in a molten state.

Understanding the Anomalous Behavior of Materials under Extreme Conditions

At extreme high pressure and high temperature conditions, materials can behave anomalously. The effects of temperature and pressure can compete, and in the case of the Earth's inner core, the pressure effect wins, keeping it in a solid state despite a higher temperature than the outer core.

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The inner core of the Earth is at a higher temperature than the outer core. Why, then, is the inner core solid and the outer core molten instead of the other way around?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understanding the Structure of the Earth

Understanding Phase changes

Applying the Phase Change Concept to Earth's Core

Understanding the Anomalous Behavior of Materials under Extreme Conditions

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