The outer core is a layer of the Earth's interior located beneath the mantle and above the inner core. It is composed mainly of liquid iron and nickel, which creates a dynamic environment. This movement of molten metal generates the Earth's magnetic field through a process known as the geodynamo. The outer core is approximately 2,200 kilometers (1,367 miles) thick and plays a crucial role in the planet's geology. Its high temperatures, ranging from 4,000 to 6,000 degrees Celsius (7,232 to 10,832 degrees Fahrenheit), contribute to the convection currents that drive the movement of tectonic plates in the lithosphere.