If the moon stopped orbiting the earth

  • Thread starter lisa1234
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In summary, if the moon were to suddenly stop orbiting the Earth and stand still, it would eventually crash into the Earth due to the Earth's gravitational pull. This same principle applies to a plane that stops mid-flight - it would simply fall. The moon would not go into a stable orbit unless it changed direction and started moving parallel to the Earth's surface. The impact of the moon hitting the Earth would cause both objects to move towards each other. Calculating the force and time of impact can be done using Newton's laws and a spreadsheet, and it would likely take several days for the moon to hit the Earth.
  • #1
lisa1234
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I know this is impossible, but theoretically speaking what would happen if the moon was stopped, so that it stopped orbiting the Earth and "stood still"? Would it hit Earth or what impact would it have on earth?
 
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  • #2
If the moon momentarily stopped moving with respect to the Earth, then the Earth's gravity would pull the moon toward it. After a short time they would crash together. (It's likely that tidal forces would start pulling both the Earth and moon apart before they actually hit)
 
  • #3
It's similar to if a plane somehow stopped mid-flight, it would just fall.
 
  • #4
Thank you!
But since it gains speed as it falls closer to Earth wouldn't it again go into a stable orbit? Or doesn't it work that way?:S
 
  • #5
No. Think about which direction the moon would be moving. It would be gaining speed toward the earth, which would just cause it to keep coming. In order to go into a stable orbit, it would need to change direction and start moving parallel to the Earth's surface.
 
  • #6
Okey! But if the moon fell shouldn't the moon's force of gravity have an impact on Earth as well, so that they both were attracted towards each other and the Earth would "move"?
 
  • #7
Yep, that's exactly what would happen.
 
  • #8
Is there anyway to calculate with what force the moon would hit Earth and/or how long it would take? Or would such calculations be too complicated..? Is there in that case any simpler way to estimate the force and time?
 
  • #9
You can use Newton's laws, plugged into a spreadsheet. It isn't too difficult. It would take several days for the moon to hit the earth.
 
  • #10
Could you show me more precisely how i could do that? What kind of equations would i use etc?
Thanks!
 

1. What would happen if the moon stopped orbiting the earth?

If the moon suddenly stopped orbiting the earth, it would have catastrophic effects on our planet. The tides, which are caused by the moon's gravitational pull, would stop, leading to unpredictable and extreme changes in sea levels. This could result in flooding, erosion, and even tsunamis. Additionally, the moon helps stabilize the earth's rotation, so without it, the earth's axis would shift, causing changes in weather patterns and potentially leading to a harsher climate.

2. Would the moon crashing into the earth be a concern if it stopped orbiting?

While the moon stopping its orbit would not directly cause it to crash into the earth, it is possible that the lack of gravitational pull from the moon could disrupt the orbits of other celestial bodies, potentially leading to collisions. However, it is more likely that the moon would eventually drift away from the earth due to the lack of gravitational force keeping it in orbit.

3. How long would it take for the effects of the moon stopping its orbit to be noticeable on earth?

The effects of the moon stopping its orbit would be immediate, as the tides would stop and the earth's rotation would be affected. However, the full extent of the consequences would likely take months or even years to fully manifest. It would also depend on the speed at which the moon stopped its orbit and how quickly the earth's systems adjust to the changes.

4. Could humans survive if the moon stopped orbiting the earth?

The sudden stop of the moon's orbit would have a significant impact on the earth's ecosystems and climate, making it difficult for humans to survive. The disruption of the tides and changes in weather patterns could lead to widespread destruction and food shortages. Additionally, the lack of the moon's gravitational pull would also affect the earth's magnetic field, leaving us vulnerable to harmful solar radiation.

5. Is it possible for the moon to stop orbiting the earth?

The moon's orbit is influenced by the gravitational pull of the earth, so it is highly unlikely that it would stop orbiting on its own. However, it is theoretically possible for an external force, such as a large asteroid or another celestial body, to knock the moon out of its orbit. However, the chances of this happening are extremely slim.

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