The layer of the Earth that is molten is called the outer core. It is composed primarily of liquid iron and nickel and lies beneath the mantle and above the inner core, which is solid. The outer core plays a crucial role in generating the Earth's magnetic field through the movement of these molten metals. This fluid motion creates electric currents, which in turn produce magnetic fields. The temperature of the outer core is extremely high, ranging between about 4,000 and 6,000 degrees Celsius (7,200 to 10,800 degrees Fahrenheit).