Question about the Moons formation.

In summary, the conversation discusses the formation of the moon and its potential impact on the Earth's position in the solar system. The speaker believes that the moon was formed from a collision between the Earth and another large body and that it was in the same orbit as the Earth. They mention that this would not have affected the Earth's position, as it was more likely influenced by the gravitational pull of Jupiter. The conversation also references the "Giant Impact Hypothesis" and provides a link for more information.
  • #1
YoungDreamer
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I am not a scientist, just an observer and an enthusiast.

I have read that the moon was formed by a huge collision between the Earth and another large body. I was wondering if this had any affect on the Earths position in the solar system. Could it have moved the planet at all? With the extra mass in the general vicinity could it have had affects on other planets?
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF!

Hi YoungDreamer! Welcome to PF! :smile:

We're still not sure how the Moon was formed, but the best guess seems to be that was in the same orbit as the Earth, at the "L4 or L5 Lagrange point" …

being in the same orbit, no it wouldn't have had any noticeable effect on the Earth's position

(the Earth's position was far more affected by the gravitational effect of Jupiter)

see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giant_impact_hypothesis#Theia" for some details, and diagrams. :wink:​
 
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Related to Question about the Moons formation.

1. How did the Moon form?

The most widely accepted theory is that the Moon formed from debris left over after a Mars-sized object collided with Earth about 4.5 billion years ago.

2. What evidence supports the theory of the Moon's formation?

Scientists have found similarities in the composition of the Moon and Earth's mantle, as well as the presence of water on the Moon's surface. Additionally, computer models and simulations have also supported this theory.

3. How long did it take for the Moon to form?

It is estimated that it took approximately 100 million years for the Moon to form after the collision between Earth and the Mars-sized object.

4. Could the Moon have formed in a different way?

While the most widely accepted theory is the giant impact hypothesis, there are other theories such as the fission theory, where the Moon was once a part of Earth and broke off, or the capture theory, where the Moon was a passing object that was caught by Earth's gravity. However, these theories are not as well-supported by evidence.

5. How does the formation of the Moon impact Earth?

The Moon's formation played a crucial role in the development of Earth's early environment. It stabilized Earth's axis and created tides, which have influenced the evolution of life on Earth. The Moon also continues to play a role in regulating Earth's climate and rotation.

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