The inner core of the Earth has the highest density. This is due to the immense pressure from the weight of the overlying layers, which compresses the iron and nickel in the inner core, making it extremely dense. The inner core is estimated to have a density of around 13 grams per cubic centimeter, which is about twice the density of lead.
The density of Earth's layers increases as you go deeper into the Earth. This is because the pressure also increases with depth, causing the atoms in the layers to be squeezed closer together.
Here is a quick overview of Earth's layers and their densities:
- Crust: The outermost layer of the Earth, with a density of about 2.7 grams per cubic centimeter.
- Mantle: The thickest layer of the Earth, with a density of about 3.3 to 5.5 grams per cubic centimeter.
- Outer Core: A liquid layer of iron and nickel, with a density of about 9.9 to 12.2 grams per cubic centimeter.
- Inner Core: A solid ball of iron and nickel, with a density of about 13 grams per cubic centimeter.