Here's why:
* Outer Core: This layer is primarily composed of liquid iron and nickel. The intense pressure from the overlying mantle and the heat from the inner core keep the outer core in a molten state, even though its temperature is around 4,500°C (8,132°F).
* Inner Core: Despite being hotter than the outer core (around 5,200°C or 9,392°F), the inner core is solid due to the immense pressure from the entire Earth above it.
So, while the inner core is hotter, it's the outer core that is actually in a liquid state because of the balance between temperature and pressure.