The earth's rotation rate is slowing down because of friction against the tidal bulges caused by the gravitation of the moon (major factor) and the sun (lesser factor). The earth's rotational energy is dissipated as heat, but where is the angular momentum going, and what physical mechanism brings that momentum there?
(In reply to
re(5): I disagree - me too, with you by ThoughtProvoker)
OK, I have one question for both both of you guys.
Tell me how you can have a loss of kinetic energy without a corresponding loss of angular momentum? After all, the formula for each depends on two things: rotational inertia (I) and rotational velocity (ù).
L = Iù,
E = ½Iù².
If the rotational speed (ù) decreases, both angular momentum and rotational energy decrease. So, if you agree that energy can be dissipated, why not the momentum that goes with it? Both momentum and energy are governed by their respective laws of conservation, right?
The thing that puzzles me in this whole discussion is that you both allow for the dissipation of energy, but not momentum. How can you lose one without the other?
Explain, please.
re(6): I disagree - me too, with you
