Earth Before Life, Essay Example

Scientists believe that Earth, as well as other planets of the Milky Way galaxy, was created from dust and gases, which remained from the creation of the Sun approximately 4.5 billion years ago. During this time, Earth was too hot for any living organism, even the most adaptable, to be able to survive. Its atmosphere was represented by the mix of poisonous gases, which formed a cloud that covered the whole planet. Though temperature of the Earth was relatively cool (2000 F) comparing to the other planets, its surface was covered with incandescent liquids. Iron, silicates and other radioactive elements were the main components of the Earth surface. “As millions of years passed, energy released by radioactive decay—mostly of uranium, thorium, and potassium—gradually heated Earth, melting some of its constituents.” (Pearson Education) The iron melted first and was forced to flow into the center of the planet by the gravitation force. Scientists also believe that Moon, satellite of our planet, was also formed as a result of huge crash of two massive objects – Earth and some unknown asteroid. Being affected by the gravitation of the Earth, Moon became our natural satellite. “Its presence stops Earth from wobbling too erratically, moderates our weather, and gives us the ocean tides” (Sissons)

As soon as the planet has cooled, water in the form of sediments and gases starter to gather in the natural basins. This is how the oceans and seas were formed. It is believed that life of the Earth originated in water, as its components were favorable for development of the first organisms.

References

Pearson Education. (2009). Origin of Earth. Retieved July 6, 2009 from http:/ /www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0004438.html.

Sissons, T. (2006). Earth before life. Retrieved July 6, 2009 from http:/ /www.alloftimeonline.com/Before%20Life.htm.