What happens if a comet hits another planet besides Earth?

Answer 1

There would be a huge collision, upsetting the surface and atmosphere of the planet. Since the mass of the comet would be many times smaller than the planet, the planets orbit would not be significantly effected.

Answer 2

We would have nine planets. When the asteroid belt was first discovered it was speculated that there had indeed been a ninth planet but, the gravitational forces between Jupiter and the Sun caused it to break up. Current theory now speculates that a planet did not form in the asteroid belt because of said gravitational forces.

If the extra planet were between the sun and the earth and of sufficient mass it could cause the Earth's orbit to shift causing great differences in temperatures and weather.

If the extra planet were out in the gas giant area then it could cause fluctuations in the asteroid belt sending more large rocks at the Earth.

Last of all there is currently, 2013, a group of astronomers that believe that there is another planet out in the Ort Cloud but, it has no effect on the solar system as it's distance is so far away.

Answer 3

Depending on the size of the planet and its direction and speed, it might knock the Earth out of its orbit and into deep space, or cause it to crash into either the Sun or Jupiter. In any event, all life on Earth would be extinguished.

But the Earth hasn't collided with anything planet-sized since the formation of the Moon 4 billion years ago, so I don't think we're in any danger of planets just now.

But the asteroid that killed off the dinosaurs 65 million years ago also killed 75% of all life on Earth, and that rock was only about 6 miles across. It has happened before; it WILL happen again, unless we develop spacecraft powerful enough to prevent it.

Answer 4

If a comet were to hit another planet, it could cause a significant impact event depending on the size and speed of the comet. This impact could create a crater, cause seismic activity, release energy equivalent to nuclear weapons, and potentially alter the planet's surface and atmosphere. The consequences would vary depending on the planet's size, composition, and distance from the sun.

Answer 5

If another Earth- like planet was discovered...then scientists would probably find out whether the human race can really live there. That is because we are killing our planet...slowly.

Answer 6

The Earth would explode completely. There would be a huge affect on Neptune, leaving debris all over the surrounding area.

Answer 7

No