Would the Earth speed up rotating if the molten core solidified?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the potential effects on Earth's rotation speed if the molten core were to solidify. It explores the implications of volume changes in the core and considers the relationship between core state and Earth's magnetic field, as well as the influence of tidal interactions with the Moon.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that if the molten core solidifies, the Earth would decrease in volume, potentially leading to an increase in rotation speed.
  • One participant mentions that the current slowing of Earth's rotation is primarily due to tidal interactions with the Moon, suggesting this effect may outweigh the changes from core solidification.
  • Another participant requests additional information regarding the composition and state of Earth's core, indicating a need for further clarification on the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the effects of core solidification on Earth's rotation speed, with some supporting the idea of increased speed while others emphasize the significance of tidal interactions. The discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions about the relationship between core state and rotation speed, as well as the lack of detailed information on the composition and behavior of the Earth's core.

Prishon
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The question is simple. The molten stuff inside the Earth will get a smaller volume when it solidifies. Will the Earth increase its rotation speed in reaction to this? What about the magnetic field?
 
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Prishon said:
The question is simple. The molten stuff inside the Earth will get a smaller volume when it solidifies. Will the Earth increase its rotation speed in reaction to this? What about the magnetic field?
Can you please post some links with references about your question? How much of Earth's core is molten? What is it made up of? Why would it shrink when solidifying? And so on. Thanks for filling our your question further.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth's_inner_core
 
If Earth cools and shrinks it will tend to rotate faster. It is currently rotating slower due to tidal interactions with the Moon. I think the latter effect will predominate.
 
Looks like OP is on vacation for 10 days, so I'll go ahead and close this thread.
 

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