A new study shows that the inner core changed shape in just a few decades, challenging previous assumptions and revealing hidden dynamics deep within Earth.

In a nutshell Scientists have discovered that Earth’s inner core isn’t just changing its rotation speed – it’s actually deforming at its surface. This is the first time such structural changes have been observed on human timescales.

Researchers studying decades of earthquake data say they have found the first evidence that, in addition to spinning backward, Earth’s inner core in changing shape.

New study reveals that Earth's inner core is undergoing unexpected structural changes, challenging long-held assumptions about its solidity.

The Earth's inner core, long considered a solid and stable sphere, may be quite different. A recent study suggests that its surface is undergoing structural transformations, challenging

Seismic waves suggest the planet's solid inner core is being pulled out of shape – and it has undergone these changes over just a few decades

Earth’s core is located below the middle layer called the mantle and the outer layer –or crust. It consists of two main parts–a liquid outer core and a more solid inner core. The outer layer is made of liquid iron-nickel and is responsible for producing Earth’s magnetic field.

Scientists found that the inner core’s structure changes as it rotates. It deforms at its border, potentially accumulating more material in some areas and less in others — almost like creating hills and valleys.

The planet’s inner core was previously thought of as a hard, solid sphere. But a new study has found that its edges are softer than realized and actually changing shape.