[SHERRI1130]

If Earth were about the mass of Mars, but remained in the same orbitit is in today, what would the Earth be like today? :confused:

[tjr]

I'm not sure if this will answer your question but I believe that there would still be life on earth. Mars is colder than earth for two reasons ,distance from the Sun and it's thin atmosphere.So if the Earth were the size of Mars it would be warmer because of distance,also I believe that we would develop a thicker atmosphere than Mars because our water would not be locked in the
Permafrost like Mars's water is, thus gas producing algea and other chemical combinations could thrive.Hope this helps

[Thad]

Since Mars does not have as much mass as the Earth, Mars would probably not have enough gravity to retain a very thick atmosphere. So, if Mars was in Earth's orbit, over time Mars would lose all its air and water to space leaving it a very dry and desolete place.

Earth is just the right size and mass to keep its water and air. This envelop of air we live in is very thin in relation to the size of the planet.

[Starman]

Here's my two cents on the subject. : )


Since Mars has only one-tenth Earth's mass, we would face the health hazards
Of low gravity, such as bone loss. Muscular coordination under this gravity would
Have to be relearned.

Assuming the same Moon/Earth gravitational relationship, the tides would be larger
Since Earth would now counter the moon's tug on our oceans with only one-tenth
The strength. This would cause areas previously habitable to be abandoned.
Perhaps measures would have to be taken to hold back the high
Tides in some densely populated areas. I see the same inundation scenario
As global warming but happening quickly and on a daily basis.

A smaller less dense core would weaken Earth's magnetic field. This would
Allow cosmic rays or the effects of solar flares to damage life.

Migrating wildlife which uses the magnetic field for navigation would be thrown
Into confusion and would have to adjust or perish.

Being less dense, Earth would need to orbit the sun at a faster velocity.
Otherwise the sun would swallow it whole.

Also, Earth would need a less dense moon for it to stay at the present distance.