Our planet, since its origin, has maintained an almost constant rhythm in its rotation on its axis. However, a recent scientific discovery revealed a subtle but significant change: the the land It spins more and more slowly. This gradual deceleration could have undoubted consequences for our planet and all the creatures that live on it, and in millions of years days may have 25 hours.
Researchers at Technical University of MunichUsing cutting-edge technology, it found that the length of Earth's day is gradually increasing. Thanks to a high-precision laser capable of measuring the slightest variations in Earth's rotation, scientists have been able to determine that our planet is spinning increasingly slowly. Although this change is almost imperceptible on human timescales, it can have a significant impact over millions of years.
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Why does this phenomenon occur?
The reasons for this slowdown are many and complex. Factors affecting:
- Relationship with Moon: The attraction between Earth and the Moon causes gravitational waves, which create friction that slows Earth's rotation.
- Internal motions of a planet: Geological processes occurring inside the Earth, such as the movement of tectonic plates and changes in mass distribution, also affect the rate of rotation.
- Impact of large objects: Throughout Earth's history, impacts from asteroids and comets have been able to modify its rotational speed.
Effects of a long day
The implications of a 25-hour day can be enormous and affect many aspects of our lives and our planet. Some of the possible consequences are:
- Weather Changes: Day length affects the distribution of sunlight and temperature on Earth's surface. A long day can change weather patterns and have unpredictable consequences for the global climate.
- Effects on wildlife: Organisms, from plants to animals, have evolved to adapt to cycles of light and darkness. A change in day length can alter these cycles and affect reproduction, migration, and other behaviors of many species.
- Changes in forecasting models: Scientists use mathematical models to predict natural phenomena such as tides and seasons. A change in Earth's rotational speed would require changes in these models.
- Effects on Astronomy: Astronomy is based on accurate observations of celestial bodies. Longer days can affect how astronomers conduct their observations and require adjustments to instruments and calculations.
When will we see 25 hour days?
According to current estimates, this transition will take several hundred million years. It is important to remember that the length of a day the land It has not been constant and variable throughout its history. In the past, the days were shorter, and they may continue to change in the future.
