Reverse/change in earth's axis

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In summary: If it did, we would all be thrown several miles due to inertia and the Earth would probably be ripped apart by whatever force caused the reversal, such as an asteroid the size of Mercury slamming into Brazil. In summary, if the Earth were to suddenly reverse its rotation or change its axis, there would be an enormous amount of energy and the accelerations at the Earth's surface would be extremely high, causing earthquakes and tsunamis. However, this scenario is highly unlikely to occur.
  • #1
Mt. Nixion
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I know that climate, seasonal and magnetic poles would be affected by this, but please, refer to them in your answer.

What would happen if Earth were to suddenly reverse direction of its rotation, or suddenly change it's axis so it rotates side to side (like uranus) or front to back instead of rotating top to bottom? Also, what would happen to us; would we fly around because of inertia because we want to stay in the same direction if the Earth reversed rotation direction or suddenly change the way it is spinning?
 
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We'd all be thrown several miles due to inertia and the Earth would probably be ripped apart by whatever force caused the reversal (such as an asteroid the size of Mercury slamming into Brazil).
 
  • #3
Curious that you mention Brazil and asteroids when the world cup is on.
 
  • #4
Mt. Nixion said:
What would happen if Earth were to suddenly reverse direction of its rotation, or suddenly change it's axis so it rotates side to side (like uranus) or front to back instead of rotating top to bottom? Also, what would happen to us; would we fly around because of inertia because we want to stay in the same direction if the Earth reversed rotation direction or suddenly change the way it is spinning?
That would require enormous amounts of energy and the accelerations at the Earth's surface would be similary huge. As russ mentioned - things would go flying (or thrown) - it wouldn't be pleasant. I don't know if the Earth would get ripped apart, but the earthquakes and tsunamis would be severe (and that's and understatement).

On the other hand, such a scenario is not likely to happen.
 

1. How does the reverse/change in earth's axis affect the seasons?

The reverse/change in earth's axis does not significantly affect the seasons. The Earth's tilt of approximately 23.5 degrees is responsible for the changing of the seasons, and this tilt remains constant even if the axis were to reverse or change.

2. Can the reverse/change in earth's axis lead to a change in the length of a day?

Yes, a reverse/change in the earth's axis can affect the length of a day. This is because the Earth's rotation is directly linked to its axis. If the axis were to reverse or change, it would also affect the rotation speed, resulting in a longer or shorter day.

3. Is it possible for the earth's axis to reverse/change naturally?

Yes, the earth's axis can reverse or change naturally. This process is known as true polar wander, and it occurs over a period of millions of years. It is caused by the redistribution of mass within the Earth, such as changes in the mantle or crust.

4. What would happen to the earth's climate if the axis were to reverse/change?

If the earth's axis were to reverse or change, it could potentially have a significant impact on the planet's climate. This is because the axis greatly influences the distribution of sunlight and the formation of weather patterns. However, the exact effects would depend on the extent and speed of the axis change.

5. How would a reverse/change in the earth's axis affect the magnetic field?

A reverse/change in the earth's axis would not directly affect the magnetic field. This is because the magnetic field is primarily generated by the Earth's core, which is not affected by the axis. However, a significant change in the axis could indirectly impact the magnetic field by altering the Earth's rotation and its relationship with the core.

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