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Formation of the Earth, artwork
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Formation of the Earth, artwork
Formation of the Earth. Artwork showing stages in the formation of the Earth, up to the present day. The Earth formed 4.5 billion years ago. In the first stage seen here the Earth is already a molten ball of rock. In the early solar system it is bombarded with meteorites and comets (2nd stage). Earths surface changed from molten to solid rock around 3800 million years ago (third stage) and liquid water condensed on the surface. The atmosphere formed (4th stage) and 2500 million years ago stable continents formed (5th stage). The Earth then underwent cycles of global glaciation (white) and thawing
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Media ID 6328461
© RICHARD BIZLEY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Comets Continents Earth Science Formation Forming Geological Hadean Ice Age Molten Origin Planetary Science Pre Historic Pre History Protoplanet Rock Rocky Solar System Terrestrial Archean
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This artwork titled "Formation of the Earth" takes us on a visual journey through the stages that shaped our planet over billions of years. The print showcases the remarkable transformation from a fiery, molten ball into the diverse and vibrant world we inhabit today. In its earliest stage, depicted in this artwork, the Earth is already a seething mass of molten rock. As time progresses, it endures relentless bombardment by meteorites and comets from the early solar system. Gradually, around 3.8 billion years ago, solid rock forms on the surface as it cools down (third stage), allowing liquid water to condense and cover parts of its landscape. The fourth stage witnesses the birth of our atmosphere, creating an environment conducive for life to thrive. Around 2.5 billion years ago (fifth stage), stable continents emerge on Earth's surface - crucial foundations for future ecosystems to flourish. Throughout its history, our planet experiences cycles of global glaciation (depicted in white) followed by thawing periods (rocky). These ice ages have played a significant role in shaping both landforms and life itself. This awe-inspiring illustration not only highlights key milestones in Earth's formation but also serves as a reminder of our planet's extraordinary resilience and ability to adapt over immense stretches of time. It encapsulates centuries' worth of scientific knowledge while inviting viewers to contemplate their place within this grand cosmic narrative.
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