Melting a dangerous asteroid about to impact Earth

In summary, melting an asteroid would not be enough to prevent impact and it would require a tremendous amount of energy to vaporize it. It would be more practical to simply knock it off course.
  • #1
endoftime
1
0
I was wondering how much energy it would take to melt a big enough asteroid considered to be dangerous? Is it even possible?

If possible, could it be done fast enough before it impacts?

If it is completely melted can it then be somehow dispersed so that it turns into smaller chunks that are not dangerous?
 
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  • #2
endoftime said:
I was wondering how much energy it would take to melt a big enough asteroid considered to be dangerous? Is it even possible?

If possible, could it be done fast enough before it impacts?

If it is completely melted can it then be somehow dispersed so that it turns into smaller chunks that are not dangerous?

Melting an asteroid wouldn't be good enough (though it's a start), all you would have then is a molten asteroid of the same mass about to crash into Earth with the added bonus of now being so hot you can't lift bits off of it.

Continuing along your line of inquiry you would have to go further than that and vapourise it into a gas, the energy required to do that would be phenomenal. It would be far easier to just knock it off course.
 
  • #3
ryan_m_b said:
... It would be far easier to just knock it off course.

I agree. Much more practical.
 

FAQ: Melting a dangerous asteroid about to impact Earth

What is an asteroid?

An asteroid is a small, rocky object that orbits the sun. They can range in size from a few feet to hundreds of miles in diameter.

Why is it dangerous to have an asteroid impact Earth?

An asteroid impact can cause widespread destruction and loss of life. The larger the asteroid, the more catastrophic the impact will be. It can also cause tsunamis, earthquakes, and climate change.

How do scientists know if an asteroid will impact Earth?

Scientists use telescopes and other instruments to track the path of asteroids and calculate their trajectory. They can also use computer simulations to predict the potential impact of an asteroid.

Can an asteroid be destroyed?

It is possible to destroy an asteroid before it impacts Earth, but it would require advanced technology and a significant amount of time. Some methods include using explosives, redirecting its path, or using a spacecraft to push it off course.

What is the best way to melt a dangerous asteroid about to impact Earth?

The most effective way to melt an asteroid would depend on its composition and size. Some possibilities include using lasers to heat up its surface, using nuclear weapons to break it apart, or using a spacecraft to redirect it towards the sun.

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