The earth's differentiation and size were significant factors for life on Earth because Earth's composition and gravitational attraction _____.
A-keep the moon and sun in orbit
B-keep people grounded
C-helped to create and retain Earth's atmosphere
D-create and retain internal heat
hints:
the earth does not keep the sun in orbit
there were no people around at first
We would have a lot of trouble generating life with no atmosphere
we get most of our heat from the sun
The correct answer is option C: helped to create and retain Earth's atmosphere.
To understand why Earth's differentiation and size were significant factors for life on Earth, let's break it down:
1. Earth's differentiation refers to the separation of its interior into distinct layers, such as the crust, mantle, and core. This differentiation occurred early in Earth's history due to the process of planetary accretion and the heat generated by the collisions of smaller celestial bodies.
2. Earth's size is also a crucial factor. Compared to other planets in our solar system, Earth has a relatively large mass and diameter. Its mass is enough to generate a strong gravitational field, which plays a vital role in various aspects of our planet.
Now let's explore each option and eliminate them until we find the correct answer:
A- Keep the moon and sun in orbit: While Earth's gravitational attraction indeed keeps celestial bodies like the moon and artificial satellites in orbit, this is not directly related to the significance for life on Earth. Eliminated.
B- Keep people grounded: Earth's gravitational pull does keep us grounded and prevents us from floating away into space. However, this is not a significant factor for life on Earth as it merely affects our daily activities. Eliminated.
D- Create and retain internal heat: This is partially correct. Earth's large size and higher gravitational compression contribute to its internal heat. This heat drives geological processes like plate tectonics, which are crucial for the recycling of elements and the formation of habitats for life. However, this does not directly relate to Earth's atmosphere. Eliminated.
C- Helped to create and retain Earth's atmosphere: This is the correct answer. The combination of Earth's size and differentiation had a significant impact on the creation and retention of our planet's atmosphere. The gravitational attraction exerted by Earth's mass prevented the lighter gases (like hydrogen and helium) from escaping into space, while heavier elements like nitrogen and oxygen remained closer to the surface, forming the atmosphere. This atmosphere is essential for the existence and sustainability of life on Earth. Selected.
Therefore, the correct answer is C: helped to create and retain Earth's atmosphere.