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Lunar nodal tide and distance to the moon during the PrecambrianThe first direct determination of the lunar distance in the Precambrian is presented. A 23.3 + or - 0.3 yr periodicity preserved in 2500 Myr BP Australian banded iron formation is interpreted as reflecting the climatic influence of the lunar nodal tide, which has been detected with its modern 18.6-yr periodicity in some modern climate records. The lunar distance at 2500 Myr BP would then have been about 52 earth radii. The implied history of precambrian tidal friction is in accord with both the more recent paleontological evidence and the long-term stability of the lunar orbit. The length of the Milankovitch cycles that modulate the ice ages today also evolve with the earth-moon system. Their detection in the Precambrian sedimentary record would then permit an independent determination of the lunar distance.
Document ID
19860051629
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
External Source(s)
Authors
Walker, J. C. G.
(Michigan Univ. Ann Arbor, MI, United States)
Zahnle, K. J.
(Michigan, University Ann Arbor, United States)
Date Acquired
August 12, 2013
Publication Date
April 17, 1986
Publication Information
Publication: Nature
Volume: 320
ISSN: 0028-0836
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
86A36367
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAGW-176
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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