Physical Geography Earth’s Outer Core and Magnetic Field Shift Earth’s Outer Core The Earth’s outer core is a massive liquid layer located about 2,800 km beneath the surface. It is mainly composed of molten iron and nickel. Role in Generating Magnetic Field Continuous movement of liquid metals in the outer core generates Earth’s magnetic field. This magnetic field protects the planet from harmful solar radiation and charged particles from the Sun. Study by Researchers Scientists from the University of Edinburgh and the British Geological Survey studied the movement of liquid iron in the outer core. Discovery of Flow Reversal Researchers found that around 2010, molten iron beneath the equatorial Pacific Ocean changed direction: from a slow westward movement, to a faster eastward flow. Two Major Flow Patterns Identified Primary Pattern (95% of movement) Consisted of a steady westward flow. Explains the historical westward drift of Earth’s magnetic field. Secondary Pattern Revealed the sudden directional reversal around 2010. The eastward surge began weakening around 2020. Link with Earth’s Inner Core Researchers connected the 2010 reversal to seismic and geodetic changes occurring in Earth’s solid inner core. Uneven Flow Between Hemispheres The model showed that the outer core flow is about 10% asymmetrical between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Importance of the Findings The study may help explain sudden magnetic disturbances or “geomagnetic jerks.” It also suggests that deep-Earth liquid movements can change direction much faster than previously believed.
