Discussion Overview
The discussion centers on whether the Earth's mass is increasing due to processes involving sunlight, photosynthesis, and the transformation of energy into matter. Participants explore the implications of these processes within the context of thermodynamics and the closed system concept, while also considering the contributions of cosmic debris and the re-radiation of energy.
Discussion Character
- Debate/contested
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
Main Points Raised
- Some participants propose that the Earth could be gaining mass through the process of photosynthesis, where plants convert sunlight into chemical energy, potentially leading to an increase in mass.
- Others argue that plants do not transform sunlight into matter but rather into chemical bonds, and that the Earth is not a closed system, as it exchanges matter with its environment.
- One participant mentions that the Earth gains mass from cosmic debris, estimating an increase of about 35 million kg per year, while another requests a source for this figure.
- Several participants discuss the concept of re-radiation of energy, noting that almost all incoming energy from the Sun is re-radiated, with some suggesting that a very small fraction may not be re-radiated during photosynthesis.
- There is a contention regarding the implications of energy absorption and re-radiation, with some asserting that the energy difference could contribute to mass gain, while others challenge this reasoning.
- Participants reference historical experiments, such as those by Jan Baptist van Helmont, to illustrate the relationship between soil mass and plant growth.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants do not reach a consensus on whether the Earth is gaining mass through photosynthesis or other processes. Multiple competing views remain regarding the nature of mass gain and the implications of energy transformations.
Contextual Notes
Limitations include unresolved assumptions about the definitions of mass gain, the closed system concept, and the specifics of energy re-radiation. The discussion also reflects varying interpretations of historical experiments and their relevance to current claims.