Distance between earth and moon increasing

In summary, the distance between the Moon and Earth is increasing due to tidal interaction, causing the Earth's rotation to slow and transfer angular momentum to the Moon. This will eventually lead to the Moon reaching orbit stability, causing the Earth to wobble. The opposite directions of motion between the two bodies also contribute to this process. However, the Earth's larger space-time curve will eventually lead to a stable position for the Moon in the future.
  • #1
mubashirmansoor
260
0
I learned that the distance betwee the Moon and the Earth is increasing but I couldn't find the reason for it, Is it because of the Earth's orbit? I mean that when the distance is minimum , causes the moon to move towards the sun ( Newtonian laws ) and even when the distance becomes maximum the Earth won't be able to completely recover the effect which had made the distance greater... ? Thankyou for your answers
 
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  • #2
Its due to tidal interaction between the Earth and Moon.
The moon causes a tidal bulge in the Earth.
The Earth tries to drag this bulge along with its rotatation, while the Moon tries to keep the bulge aligned with itself.

The result of this "tug o war" is that the Earth's rotation slows and the resultant loss of angular momentum is transferred to the Moon, lifting the Moon into a higher orbit.
 
  • #3
I watched a video about the Moon's fate. Eventually it will reach orbit stability, I believe that's what they said. When that happens our planet will wobble feverishly. Then the moon will eventually meet the Sun when it's near its own end of life.
 
  • #4
Agreed theoretically, but it will take an astounding amount of time.
 
  • #5
Thankyou for ur answers I wanted to know if I have understood the task correctly or not:)
the direction of motion of these two heavenly
bodies are totally opposite. This means that the tides on Earth will have a
direction opposite to the earth’s rotation and this causes the Earth to slow
down and in other words it’s angular momentum will decrease where P = m.v
so due to the decrease in v the ‘P’ will decrease or in other words the effect of
gravitons decreases which will cause the moon to feel comfortable to escape
from the gravity and this causes the moon to take a distance form the earth
BUT as we all know the space-time curve of Earth is quite larger than the
moon’s so we can expect a certain position of moon where Earth won’t be
effected by it and the moon will be still inside the curve & that is the point
where the moon would get a stable situation
 

1. What is causing the distance between the earth and moon to increase?

The distance between the earth and moon is increasing due to the tidal forces between the two bodies. The moon's gravity pulls on the earth, causing the earth's oceans to bulge towards the moon. This bulge creates a slight drag on the moon, causing it to slowly move away from the earth.

2. How much is the distance between the earth and moon increasing each year?

The distance between the earth and moon is increasing at a rate of approximately 3.8 centimeters per year. This may seem like a small amount, but over time it can add up to a significant increase in distance.

3. Will the distance between the earth and moon continue to increase?

Yes, the distance between the earth and moon will continue to increase over time. However, the rate at which it increases may change due to various factors such as changes in the moon's orbit or the earth's rotation.

4. Is the increase in distance between the earth and moon a cause for concern?

No, the increase in distance between the earth and moon is not a cause for concern. It is a natural process that has been occurring for billions of years and will continue to do so. The distance between the two bodies will not become dangerously large in our lifetimes.

5. How does the increasing distance between the earth and moon affect tides?

The increasing distance between the earth and moon does not have a significant effect on tides. Tides are primarily influenced by the moon's gravity and the earth's rotation, not the distance between the two bodies. However, as the distance continues to increase, the tides may become slightly weaker over time.

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