Effects of moon on prehistoric earth

In summary, the effects of the moon on prehistoric Earth were significant and far-reaching. The moon's gravitational pull played a crucial role in shaping the Earth's early environment, stabilizing its axis and tides. It also likely influenced the evolution of life on our planet, as the moon's phases may have affected the behavior and reproduction of early organisms. Furthermore, the moon's impact on the Earth's orbit has helped to maintain a stable climate, allowing for the development and survival of complex life forms. Overall, the moon's presence has had a profound impact on the history and development of our planet.
  • #1
Thomas,G
If the moon is expanding its orbit at a rate of one inch per year, that would mean that 65,000,000 years ago it would have been roughly 1,000 miles closer to the earth. Does anyone know of a study that considers how the moon proximety to the Earth at this time may have effected the environment and possibly allowed for the existence and or contributed to the demise of dinosaurs? And what effects on gravity it may have had which may have accounted for the possibility of so many prehistoric creatures being so large?
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF!

Hi Thomas! Welcome to PF! :smile:
Thomas said:
If the moon is expanding its orbit at a rate of one inch per year, that would mean that 65,000,000 years ago it would have been roughly 1,000 miles closer to the earth. Does anyone know of a study that considers how the moon proximety to the Earth at this time may have effected the environment and possibly allowed for the existence and or contributed to the demise of dinosaurs? And what effects on gravity it may have had which may have accounted for the possibility of so many prehistoric creatures being so large?

According to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moon" , the Moon's present distance from Earth varies between 363,104 km and 405,696 km (about 240,000 miles ± 5%).

So I'm afraid a 1,000 miles difference wouldn't really be noticeable. :wink:
 
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  • #3
IOW, the Moon presently varies its distance from the Earth by some 26,000 miles every month.
 

1. What is the evidence that the moon had an effect on prehistoric earth?

There are several lines of evidence that suggest the moon had an effect on prehistoric earth. One is the tidal effects on the earth's oceans, which would have been more pronounced with a closer and larger moon. Another is the stabilization of the earth's tilt, which is essential for the development of life. Additionally, the moon's gravitational pull may have helped to stabilize the earth's orbit around the sun.

2. Did the moon have a significant impact on the evolution of life on prehistoric earth?

While it is difficult to determine the exact impact of the moon on the evolution of life, it is believed that the moon played a significant role. The tides caused by the moon's gravitational pull may have created prime environments for the evolution of early marine life. The moon's effects on the earth's climate and stabilization of its orbit may have also played a role in creating a stable environment for life to thrive.

3. How did the moon's formation affect prehistoric earth?

The current theory of the moon's formation is that it was created when a Mars-sized object collided with the early earth. This collision would have had a significant impact on prehistoric earth, including causing the formation of the moon and potentially changing the tilt of the earth's axis. It may have also affected the earth's rotation rate and the development of its atmosphere.

4. Did the moon have an impact on prehistoric earth's climate?

Yes, the moon's gravitational pull played a role in stabilizing the earth's tilt, which affects the amount of sunlight and heat that reaches different parts of the earth. This would have had an impact on the earth's climate, potentially creating more mild and stable conditions that were conducive to the development of life.

5. How has the moon's effect on prehistoric earth changed over time?

The moon's effect on prehistoric earth has changed over time due to a process called tidal braking. This is where the earth's rotation is gradually slowing down due to the tidal forces of the moon. As a result, the earth was spinning faster in the past, which would have had a stronger effect on the tides and potentially the climate. Additionally, the moon is slowly moving further away from the earth, meaning its effects would have been stronger in the past.

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