Which layer of the Earth is responsible for generating Earths magnetic...
The Earth's magnetic field is generated by the movement of molten iron and nickel in the outer core.
Which layer of the Earth is responsible for generating Earths magnetic...
The correct answer is option 'C' - Outer core.
The Earth's magnetic field is generated by the motion of molten iron in the outer core of the Earth. This process is known as the dynamo theory. Let's understand this concept in detail:
1. Earth's Magnetic Field:
The Earth has a magnetic field that extends from its interior into space. It acts like a giant magnet, with a north and south pole, and is responsible for various phenomena such as the behavior of compass needles and the formation of the auroras.
2. Dynamo Theory:
The dynamo theory explains the generation of the Earth's magnetic field. It suggests that the motion of electrically conducting fluid in the outer core, primarily molten iron, creates electric currents. These electric currents then generate the magnetic field.
3. Outer Core:
The outer core is the layer of the Earth located between the mantle and the inner core. It is primarily composed of liquid iron and nickel. The outer core is in a molten state due to the high temperatures and pressures present in this region.
4. Convection Currents:
Convection currents play a crucial role in the generation of the Earth's magnetic field. The heat generated from the inner core causes the molten iron in the outer core to rise towards the surface. As it cools, it becomes denser and sinks back towards the inner core.
5. Coriolis Effect:
The rotation of the Earth influences the motion of the molten iron in the outer core. This is known as the Coriolis effect. The rotation causes the fluid to circulate in a specific pattern, creating swirling convection currents.
6. Electric Currents:
The swirling convection currents in the outer core generate electric currents due to the movement of the conductive fluid. These electric currents, in turn, create a magnetic field.
7. Magnetic Field Generation:
The combination of the Coriolis effect, convection currents, and electric currents in the outer core generates a self-sustaining magnetic field. The magnetic field extends from the interior of the Earth into space, creating the Earth's magnetic field.
In conclusion, the outer core of the Earth, primarily composed of liquid iron and nickel, is responsible for generating the Earth's magnetic field. The motion of the molten iron in the outer core, driven by convection currents and influenced by the Coriolis effect, generates electric currents that create the magnetic field.