This book explains how it came to be that Venus and Earth, while very similar in chemical composition, zonation, size and heliocentric distance from the Sun, are very different in surface environmental conditions. It is argued here that these differences can be accounted for by planetoid capture processes and the subsequent evolution of the planet-satellite system. Venus captured a one-half moon-mass planetoid early in its history in the retrograde direction and underwent its "fatal attraction scenario" with its satellite (Adonis). Earth, on the other hand, captured a moon-mass planetoid (Luna) early in its history in prograde orbit and underwent a benign estrangement scenario with its captured satellite.

Auteur

Bob Malcuit received his Bachelor and Master degrees in Geology from Kent State University in 1968 and 1970 and his Ph.D. in Geology from Michigan State University in 1973. He taught in the Geosciences Department at Denison University from 1972 to 1999. His main research interests throughout his teaching career and in retirement are in the field of Planetary Geology.

Résumé

This book explains how it came to be that Venus and Earth, while very similar in chemical composition, zonation, size and heliocentric distance from the Sun, are very different in surface environmental conditions. It is argued here that these differences can be accounted for by planetoid capture processes and the subsequent evolution of the planet-satellite system. Venus captured a one-half moon-mass planetoid early in its history in the retrograde direction and underwent its fatal attraction scenario with its satellite (Adonis). Earth, on the other hand, captured a moon-mass planetoid (Luna) early in its history in prograde orbit and underwent a benign estrangement scenario with its captured satellite.

Contenu

Introduction.- The Origin of the Sun and the Early Evolution of the Solar System.- Models for the Origin and Evolution of the Earth-Moon System.- A Prograde Gravitational Capture Model for the Origin and Evolution of the Earth-Moon System.- Some Critical Interpretations and Misinterpretations of Lunar Features.- Origin and Evolution of the Venus-Adonis System: A Retrograde Gravitational Capture Model.- A Retrograde Gravitational Capture Model for the Earth-Moon System.- Planet Orbit Lunar Orbit Resonances and the History of the Earth-Moon System.- Discussion of the Probability of Finding Habitable Planets for Humans Orbiting Sun-Like Stars.- Summary and Conclusions.- Appendices.- Glossary.- Index.