In 1 sextillion years, if the Earth still exists within the Solar System, it will likely collide with the Sun due to the decay of its orbit caused by gravitational radiation. This prediction is based on current scientific understanding of long-term astrophysical processes.
Earth's Fateful Future
The long-term fate of Earth is tied to several factors, with orbital decay being a critical one over extremely long timescales. Let's break down what could lead to this eventual collision:
Gravitational Radiation and Orbital Decay
- What is Gravitational Radiation? All orbiting objects, including planets around stars, emit gravitational waves. This emission carries away energy from the system.
- How it Affects Earth's Orbit: The energy loss due to gravitational radiation causes Earth's orbit to gradually shrink. This shrinking is incredibly slow at first, but the rate increases as the orbit gets smaller.
The Sun's Role
- If the Sun Still Exists: Assuming the Sun hasn't already evolved into a red giant and then a white dwarf by this point (a process that would occur much sooner than 1 sextillion years), it will remain a gravitational force acting on the Earth.
- Tidal Forces: Tidal forces between the Earth and the Sun also contribute to the orbital evolution.
Collision Course
- Orbital Deterioration: Over 1 sextillion years, the subtle but persistent effect of gravitational radiation will cause Earth's orbit to decay significantly.
- Eventual Impact: Eventually, this decay leads to Earth spiraling into the Sun.
In summary, the extremely long-term future, stretching to 1 sextillion years, predicts the Earth's orbital decay and eventual collision with the Sun, contingent on both bodies still existing in a recognizable form.
