Colossal Questions Season 3 Episode 4 What Would Happen If The Sun Went Out?
- May 19, 2018
- 2 min
What would happen if the Sun went out? That's the question on everyone's minds in this episode of Colossal Questions. Scientists and experts weigh in on the hypothetical scenario of the Sun suddenly disappearing, leaving Earth in complete darkness and without its primary source of energy.
First, we explore the immediate effects of the Sun's disappearance. Without its heat and light, the Earth's temperature would drop dramatically, causing the planet to become uninhabitable within a matter of weeks. Plants and crops would die, leading to a massive food shortage, and the oceans would eventually freeze, leaving the planet completely lifeless.
But just how long would it take for these catastrophic events to occur? Scientists estimate that it would take only 8 minutes and 20 seconds for the Earth to stop receiving light and heat from the Sun, plunging the planet into eternal darkness. After just a few hours, the temperature on Earth would begin to drop significantly, and within a week, the average temperature would be around -40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Next, we explore the long-term effects of a frozen, lifeless Earth. Without the Sun's gravity to keep the planets in order, the orbits of the other planets in our solar system would eventually become chaotic, leading to a domino effect of planetary collisions and destruction.
But what about life on Earth? Would any species be able to survive the harsh conditions of a frozen planet? Surprisingly, some organisms on Earth are already adapted to living in extreme conditions such as the deep sea and Antarctica. Some scientists speculate that these organisms could potentially survive in underground pockets of geothermal activity, where temperatures are still warm enough to support life.
Finally, we wrap up the episode with some hypothetical scenarios and creative ideas for how humanity could potentially survive in a world without the Sun. From massive underground cities to genetically modified crops that can survive in freezing temperatures, there are many possible solutions that scientists and experts have proposed.
Overall, this episode of Colossal Questions provides a fascinating and thought-provoking exploration of what would happen if the Sun went out, and the potential consequences that would follow. Whether you're a science buff or simply curious about hypothetical scenarios, this episode is sure to spark your imagination and leave you with plenty to think about.