Extinction event in my story, is it believable?

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    Extinction Moon
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the plausibility of a fictional extinction-level event in a narrative set in a future version of Earth. Participants explore various scenarios that could lead to such an event, including astronomical phenomena and advanced human technology. The scope includes theoretical explanations, speculative science, and narrative development.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes a scenario where the Moon's orbit becomes more elliptical, leading to extreme tidal waves and potential extinction, questioning the feasibility of such an orbit change without rendering Earth uninhabitable.
  • Another participant suggests that severe earthquakes, possibly triggered by the Moon's proximity, could lead to catastrophic destruction and global climate changes, making this a more plausible extinction scenario.
  • A different viewpoint introduces the idea of a cometary impact causing mega tsunamis, emphasizing the potential for widespread devastation through multiple impacts.
  • Some participants discuss the possibility of an asteroid impact on the Moon, which could alter its orbit and lead to catastrophic tidal effects, while acknowledging the challenges of such a scenario.
  • There is a suggestion that instead of total extinction, a narrative could focus on the survival of small isolated groups, allowing for a more gradual evolution of civilization over time.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express multiple competing views on the mechanisms of the extinction event, with no consensus on a single plausible scenario. Various ideas are debated, including the effects of the Moon's orbit, the role of earthquakes, and the impact of celestial bodies.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight limitations in their proposed scenarios, such as the need for believable scientific explanations and the challenges of achieving total extinction versus partial survival. The discussion remains open-ended regarding the feasibility of the various ideas presented.

Who May Find This Useful

Writers and creators interested in speculative fiction, particularly those exploring themes of extinction events, advanced technology, and the evolution of civilization in fictional narratives.

  • #31
Vanadium 50 said:
Um...the OP has been gone for months.
Still fun.
 
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