Scientists reveal timeline for human and mammal extinction from Earth

A new study predicts a grim future for humanity as Earth's continents drift towards forming a supercontinent. This will lead to extreme temperatures, reaching 40-50°C, making survival impossible for humans and many other species due to the inability to regulate body heat.
Scientists reveal timeline for human and mammal extinction from Earth
Everyone has wondered at some point: how will life on Earth eventually come to an end? From ancient myths to modern science fiction, the idea of extinction has both fascinated and terrified us. Now, scientists are bringing us closer to an answer, predicting how and when humans and other mammals could face extinction—and it is not comforting.
Dr Alexander Farnsworth, a senior Research Associate at the University of Bristol, led a research that was published in the journal Nature Geoscience. The study claims that the Earth’s continents are slowly drifting, before they will eventually come together to form a supercontinent called Pangea Ultima.
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The new continent will alter the planet’s climate drastically. The study used supercomputers climate models, which predicted that the climate that will be created will be too hot and dry for most life forms to survive. This extreme heat will be caused because of three factors- continentality effect, hotter sun and more CO2 in the atmosphere.
The continentality effect is a climatic condition that occurs when inland temperatures fluctuate more than temperatures near large bodies of water. Since the continents will merge, more and more inland areas will face the lack of water bodies, making them much hotter. Further in a million or so years, the sun will become much hotter and brighter, emitting more energy to Earth. Last but not the least, the increased volcanic activity implies that more CO2 will be released.

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Dr. Farnsworth added that our fate would ultimately be sealed by widespread temperatures ranging between 40 to 50° Celsius (104 to 122° Fahrenheit), with even greater daily extremes, compounded by high humidity levels. As a result of this humans and many other species would expire due to their inability to shed this heat through sweat mechanism.
While this predicted future might seem really far-fetched, the authors of the study emphasize on the current climate crisis that looms over us. To project future carbon dioxide levels, the team utilized models of tectonic plate movement and ocean chemistry. They estimate that CO₂ levels, currently around 400 parts per million, could increase to over 600 ppm in the coming years. The CO2 emissions need to zero down as soon as possible, or the future of humanity seems bleak.
Dr. Farnsworth has emphasized the importance of addressing the current climate crisis to prevent such a grim future. The study stresses the need for immediate action to reduce CO2 emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change. While this scenario is millions of years away, the research serves as a stark reminder of the long-term consequences of our actions on the planet. It also specifies the urgency of taking steps now to protect Earth's habitability for future generations.
For the unversed, Earth is the only known place where life flourishes, shaped by billions of years of evolution. From its towering mountains to its deep oceans, Earth’s ecosystems are interconnected in a delicate balance that sustains countless species, including humans.
In conclusion, the study by Dr. Alexander Farnsworth warns that as Earth's continents drift and form a new supercontinent, our climate could become extremely hot and dry, making it difficult for humans and many other species to survive. With rising temperatures and increasing CO2 levels, it’s crucial to take immediate action to reduce carbon emissions. Although this future scenario is millions of years away, it reminds us of the importance of protecting our planet now to ensure a livable Earth for future generations.
If current trends continue, the cumulative effects could lead to catastrophic outcomes for future generations. This stark reminder serves to motivate global efforts toward environmental conservation, reinforcing the need for immediate and sustained action to protect our planet's future.
Also Read: Good news! Earth is gaining less heat than it has for several years
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