The Latest Theory of How Earth Obtained Its Water
Could this latest theory of how Earth obtained its water raise the chances of us finding other habitable planets?
Earth was born as tiny millimeter-sized pebbles that accumulated over the course of just a few million years, but it may have developed far more quickly than previously thought.
The new hypothesis also contends that water, an essential component of life, is not brought to Earth by ice comets but rather is drawn to our young planet by its insatiable need for water from space. The hypothesis suggests that aquatic and habitable planets surrounding other stars may be more frequent than currently anticipated, which might have significant ramifications for the search for life outside the solar system.
The new idea proposes that microscopic dust particles would be quickly vacuumed up by forming planets once they reached a specific size, roughly 4.5 billion years ago when the sun was a baby star surrounded by a protoplanetary disk of gas and dust. This "vacuuming up" of disk material in the case of the young Earth made sure that our planet had enough water.
"There are also a lot of frosty particles on the disk. According to team member and Ph.D. student at the Centre for Star and Planet Formation, University of Copenhagen, Isaac Onyett, "the vacuum cleaner effect draws in the dust while also capturing some of the ice." Instead of relying on a random event bringing water to Earth 100 million years later, this approach helps bring about the presence of water at Earth's formation.
Martin Schiller, a geochemist at the University of Copenhagen and a member of the team that developed the idea, stated in a statement that "people have debated how planets form for a long time." According to one idea, planets are created over the course of 100 million years by the steady collision of bodies, which gradually increases their size. In this case, some form of chance event would be required for there to be water on Earth.
One illustration of such a random occurrence would be the planet being pounded by water-shedding ice comets near the conclusion of its formation.
It is fortunate that we have water on Earth, Schiller added, if that is how Earth formed. This significantly reduces the likelihood that there is water on planets outside of our solar system.
The team's new theory was developed by measuring the mechanisms and timelines of planet formation using silicon isotopes as a gauge. The scientists were able to establish a link between rocky planets like Earth and other worlds in the solar system by analyzing the isotope makeup of more than 60 meteorites and planetary bodies.
The scientists' growing body of information led them to hypothesize that, with less reliance on chance, there is a higher likelihood that other planets have an abundance of water.
"This theory would predict that whenever you form a planet like Earth, it will have water on it," team member and Globe Institute professor Martin Bizzarro stated. The planet should have water if it is at the proper distance if you visit another planetary system with a planet orbiting a star the size of the sun.
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Darron Koss
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US Winter Storm: At Least 30 Dead as Nearly 200 Million Under Cold Alerts
Deadly Winter Hits the United States A historic winter storm has swept across the United States, leaving at least 30 people dead and nearly 200 million residents under cold-weather alerts. The storm, marked by record-low temperatures, heavy snow, and icy conditions, has affected large portions of the country from the Midwest to the East Coast. Meteorologists describe this event as one of the most severe in recent decades, noting its combination of extreme cold, high winds, and widespread snow coverage. Authorities warn that these conditions pose significant risks to public safety and infrastructure. Understanding the Storm The winter storm is the result of a polar air mass moving southward, colliding with warmer air from southern regions. This interaction has created blizzard conditions, ice accumulation, and dangerously low wind chill temperatures. Cold alerts have been issued for nearly two-thirds of the U.S. population, including major cities such as Chicago, New York, and Dallas. Temperatures have plunged to historic lows in some regions, reaching -30°F (-34°C) in northern states. Fatalities and Human Impact At least 30 confirmed deaths have been attributed to the storm, primarily caused by traffic accidents, hypothermia, and carbon monoxide poisoning from improper heating methods. Emergency services report a surge in calls for assistance, including rescues of stranded motorists and people trapped in their homes. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly, homeless, and low-income families, are particularly at risk. Shelters and warming centers have been opened in major cities, but demand has exceeded capacity in many areas. Transportation and Infrastructure Disruptions The storm has caused widespread disruption to transportation networks, including: Thousands of flight cancellations and delays at major airports Closed highways and roads due to ice and snow Delays in public transit systems in urban areas Power outages affecting millions of homes and businesses Utility companies are working to restore electricity, but extreme cold complicates repair efforts. Residents are advised to limit travel, conserve energy, and prepare for extended outages. Public Health Concerns Severe cold presents serious public health risks. Authorities emphasize the importance of: Staying indoors whenever possible Wearing layers of warm clothing Avoiding prolonged exposure to the cold Checking on neighbors, especially elderly or disabled individuals Medical professionals warn that hypothermia, frostbite, and heart strain from shoveling snow are common causes of winter-related emergencies during such storms. Carbon monoxide poisoning has also been a concern, as some residents use improper heating devices indoors. Community Preparedness and Response Community response has been critical in mitigating the impact of the storm. Local governments and organizations have: Set up emergency warming centers and shelters Deployed road crews for snow and ice removal Coordinated with volunteers and nonprofits to deliver food, blankets, and supplies Issued emergency alerts and advisories through multiple channels Citizens are encouraged to check on neighbors, keep emergency kits ready, and follow official guidance to stay safe. Economic and Social Consequences Beyond immediate safety concerns, the winter storm is expected to have economic repercussions: Retail, hospitality, and service sectors face lost revenue due to closures Supply chains are delayed, affecting deliveries and manufacturing Utility companies will incur extra costs for emergency repairs and overtime Insurance claims for property damage and vehicle accidents are likely to rise The storm also highlights social inequality, as lower-income households are less equipped to cope with prolonged outages or heating costs. The Role of Climate Patterns Meteorologists link extreme winter storms to polar vortex fluctuations, La Niña effects, and broader climate variability. While global warming has generally increased average temperatures, it has also contributed to more extreme and erratic weather patterns, including sudden cold outbreaks in temperate regions. Experts stress the importance of investing in resilient infrastructure, emergency planning, and climate adaptation strategies to minimize future impacts. Key Safety Recommendations for Communities Authorities advise that individuals and communities take proactive measures, including: Maintaining emergency supplies, including food, water, and blankets Avoiding unnecessary travel and staying informed via official channels Checking on vulnerable residents and providing assistance Ensuring proper ventilation when using indoor heating devices Community solidarity can significantly reduce fatalities and hardships during extreme weather events. Looking Ahead While the storm is expected to gradually move eastward, meteorologists caution that dangerous conditions may persist in some areas for several days. Recovery will require coordination between local governments, utility providers, and community organizations. This event also serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness, highlighting how weather emergencies can quickly affect millions of people, disrupt services, and threaten lives. Conclusion The US winter storm has been deadly and disruptive, claiming lives, overwhelming infrastructure, and affecting nearly 200 million people under cold alerts. Its impact extends beyond immediate safety to economic, social, and public health consequences. Communities that prepare, support vulnerable residents, and follow emergency guidance can mitigate the worst effects. This storm underscores the urgent need for awareness, planning, and resilience in the face of increasingly extreme weather events.
By Aarif Lashariabout 20 hours ago in Earth
SC Upholds Tribunal Order Restoring Sessions Judge
The Supreme Court’s recent decision to uphold a tribunal order restoring a sessions judge has drawn significant attention across legal and public circles. The ruling is being seen as an important reaffirmation of judicial independence, procedural fairness, and the rule of law, especially at a time when judicial accountability and executive authority are often subjects of public debate.
By Muhammad Hassan4 days ago in Earth
Comments (1)
Super interesting!!!! I am also so interested in the findings about earth-like planets and also the inner-earth theories (i.e. humanity sets up camp under water). I cannot even fathom connecting with other earths! We'll have a Universe-Wide-Web instead of a World-Wide-Web! I enjoyed the read. Keep up the good work!