UPSC Exam  >  UPSC Notes  >  Geography Optional for UPSC  >  Origin of Earth

Origin of Earth | Geography Optional for UPSC PDF Download

Download, print and study this document offline
303 videos|635 docs|252 tests

FAQs on Origin of Earth - Geography Optional for UPSC

1. What is the primary theory regarding the origin of Earth?
Ans. The primary theory regarding the origin of Earth is the Nebular Hypothesis. This theory suggests that Earth formed approximately 4.6 billion years ago from the gravitational collapse of a region within a large molecular cloud. This process led to the formation of the Sun and the surrounding planets, including Earth, through accretion of dust and gas.
2. How did the early Earth differ from the Earth we know today?
Ans. The early Earth was vastly different from today’s planet. It was extremely hot, with a molten surface due to the intense heat from accretion, radioactive decay, and frequent collisions with other celestial bodies. The atmosphere was primarily composed of volcanic gases, and there was little to no free oxygen, unlike the nitrogen-oxygen rich atmosphere we have now.
3. What role did water play in the formation of Earth?
Ans. Water played a crucial role in the formation and evolution of Earth. It is believed that water was delivered to Earth through comets and icy asteroids during its early history. Once the planet cooled down, this water accumulated to form oceans, which were essential for the development of life and contributed to the stabilization of the climate.
4. What evidence supports the theory of Earth's formation?
Ans. Several lines of evidence support the theory of Earth's formation, including the study of meteorites, which are considered remnants from the early solar system. Radiometric dating of rocks and minerals on Earth and the Moon also provides insights into the age and formation processes of our planet. Additionally, computer simulations of planetary formation lend further credibility to the Nebular Hypothesis.
5. How does the study of Earth's origin contribute to our understanding of the solar system?
Ans. The study of Earth's origin helps scientists understand the processes that led to the formation of other celestial bodies in the solar system. By examining Earth's formation in relation to other planets, researchers can gather insights into planetary differentiation, the conditions necessary for life, and the evolution of planetary atmospheres. This knowledge is crucial for the search for extraterrestrial life and understanding the history of our solar system.
Related Searches

Summary

,

Sample Paper

,

Origin of Earth | Geography Optional for UPSC

,

Extra Questions

,

Free

,

MCQs

,

Origin of Earth | Geography Optional for UPSC

,

Objective type Questions

,

study material

,

practice quizzes

,

Semester Notes

,

Viva Questions

,

video lectures

,

Origin of Earth | Geography Optional for UPSC

,

pdf

,

ppt

,

Exam

,

shortcuts and tricks

,

Previous Year Questions with Solutions

,

mock tests for examination

,

past year papers

,

Important questions

;