Re: 1st Year Geo. Question / Impact

[Tompaleo@aol.com]

In a message dated 96-01-14 16:18:44 EST, you write:

>The slowing up of the number of days per year is due to the energy lost to
>the tidal forces. That's about it.
>
>

Essentially correct but a little over simplified! There are numerous factors
affecting the earths spin. As stated above, tidal forces between the earth
and moon (as well as the sun and planets) act as a drag on the spin. Also,
tectonic forces (shifting of plates) that redistribute masses about the
globe, seasonal changes (winter die offs vs summer growth) affect biomass
distribution, atmospheric drag caused by shifts in the prevailing winds just
to name a few all act positively or negatively on the earths spin.
Interestingly, the earth's magnetic field is also weakening  along with a
rotational decay . They may not be related but maybe they are.

This thread has piqued me to do a little research on the subject and if there
is interest or lack of objection, I may post an "essay" complete with refs on
the subject. FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY! That is , if I have time...

Regards,
Thomas R. Lipka
Paleontological/Geological Studies