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?

The angular rotation of the earth has a small affect on the moons orbit. The gravity feild would be disrupted, slowly inching the moon away, decreasing is gravitational influence.

Posted by Chaz on 2003-05-03 09:25:56