Changes

==PAPER 57: THE ORIGIN OF URANTIA==   

==PAPER 57: THE ORIGIN OF URANTIA==   

57:0.1 In presenting excerpts from the [[archives]] of [[Jerusem]] for the [[records]] of [[Urantia]] respecting its antecedents and early [[history]], we are directed to reckon [[time]] in terms of current usage—the present [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leap_year leap-year] calendar of 365¼ days to the year. As a rule, no attempt will be made to give exact years, though they are of [[record]]. We will use the nearest whole [[numbers]] as the better [[method]] of presenting these historic [[facts]].

57:0.1 In presenting excerpts from the [[archives]] of [[Jerusem]] for the [[records]] of [[Urantia]] respecting its antecedents and early [[history]], we are directed to reckon [[time]] in terms of current usage—the present [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leap_year leap-year] calendar of 365¼ days to the year. As a rule, no attempt will be made to give exact years, though they are of [[record]]. We will use the nearest whole [[numbers]] as the better [[method]] of presenting these historic [[facts]].

57:0.2 When referring to an [[event]] as of one or two millions of years ago, we [[intend]] to date such an occurrence back that number of years from the early decades of the [http://www.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_Century twentieth century] of the [[Christian]] era. We will thus depict these far-distant [[events]] as occurring in even periods of thousands, millions, and billions of years.

57:0.2 When referring to an [[event]] as of one or two millions of years ago, we [[intend]] to date such an occurrence back that number of years from the early decades of the [https://www.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_Century twentieth century] of the [[Christian]] era. We will thus depict these far-distant [[events]] as occurring in even periods of thousands, millions, and billions of years.

==57:1. THE ANDRONOVER NEBULA==   

==57:1. THE ANDRONOVER NEBULA==   

57:1.5 The recording of this permit signifies that the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_29#29:5._THE_MASTER_FORCE_ORGANIZERS force organizer] and staff had already departed from [[Uversa]] on the long [[journey]] to that easterly [[space]] sector where they were subsequently to [[engage]] in those protracted [[activities]] which would terminate in the [[emergence]] of a new [[physical]] [[creation]] in [[Orvonton]].

57:1.5 The recording of this permit signifies that the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_29#29:5._THE_MASTER_FORCE_ORGANIZERS force organizer] and staff had already departed from [[Uversa]] on the long [[journey]] to that easterly [[space]] sector where they were subsequently to [[engage]] in those protracted [[activities]] which would terminate in the [[emergence]] of a new [[physical]] [[creation]] in [[Orvonton]].

57:1.6 875,000,000,000 years ago the enormous ''Andronover nebula'' number 876,926 was duly [[initiated]]. Only the [[presence]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_29#29:5._THE_MASTER_FORCE_ORGANIZERS force organizer] and the [[liaison]] staff was required to [[inaugurate]] the [[energy]] whirl which [[eventually]] grew into this vast [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclone cyclone] of space. Subsequent to the [[initiation]] of such [[nebular]] [[revolutions]], the living [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclone force organizers] simply withdraw at [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Right_angle right angles] to the [[plane]] of the [[revolutionary]] disk, and from that time forward, the [[inherent]] [[qualities]] of [[energy]] insure the [[progressive]] and orderly [[evolution]] of such a new [[physical]] [[system]].

57:1.6 875,000,000,000 years ago the enormous ''Andronover nebula'' number 876,926 was duly [[initiated]]. Only the [[presence]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_29#29:5._THE_MASTER_FORCE_ORGANIZERS force organizer] and the [[liaison]] staff was required to [[inaugurate]] the [[energy]] whirl which [[eventually]] grew into this vast [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclone cyclone] of space. Subsequent to the [[initiation]] of such [[nebular]] [[revolutions]], the living [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclone force organizers] simply withdraw at [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Right_angle right angles] to the [[plane]] of the [[revolutionary]] disk, and from that time forward, the [[inherent]] [[qualities]] of [[energy]] insure the [[progressive]] and orderly [[evolution]] of such a new [[physical]] [[system]].

57:1.7 At about this time the [[narrative]] shifts to the [[functioning]] of the [[personalities]] of the [[superuniverse]]. In [[reality]] the [[story]] has its proper beginning at this point—at just about the [[time]] the [[Paradise]] [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_29#29:5._THE_MASTER_FORCE_ORGANIZERS force organizers] are preparing to withdraw, having made the [[space]]-[[energy]] conditions ready for the [[action]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_29#29:1._THE_SEVEN_SUPREME_POWER_DIRECTORS power directors] and [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_29#29:4._THE_MASTER_PHYSICAL_CONTROLLERS physical controllers] of the [[superuniverse]] of [[Orvonton]].

57:1.7 At about this time the [[narrative]] shifts to the [[functioning]] of the [[personalities]] of the [[superuniverse]]. In [[reality]] the [[story]] has its proper beginning at this point—at just about the [[time]] the [[Paradise]] [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_29#29:5._THE_MASTER_FORCE_ORGANIZERS force organizers] are preparing to withdraw, having made the [[space]]-[[energy]] conditions ready for the [[action]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_29#29:1._THE_SEVEN_SUPREME_POWER_DIRECTORS power directors] and [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_29#29:4._THE_MASTER_PHYSICAL_CONTROLLERS physical controllers] of the [[superuniverse]] of [[Orvonton]].

==57:2. THE PRIMARY NEBULAR STAGE==   

==57:2. THE PRIMARY NEBULAR STAGE==   

57:2.1 All [[evolutionary]] [[material]] [[creations]] are born of [[circular]] and [[gaseous]] [[nebulae]], and all such primary [[nebulae]] are [[circular]] throughout the early part of their [[gaseous]] [[existence]]. As they grow older, they usually become [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spiral_nebula spiral], and when their [[function]] of [[sun]] formation has run its [[course]], they often terminate as [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_cluster clusters] of [[stars]] or as enormous [[suns]] surrounded by a varying [[number]] of [[planets]], [[satellites]], and smaller [[groups]] of [[matter]] in many ways resembling your own diminutive [[solar system]].

57:2.1 All [[evolutionary]] [[material]] [[creations]] are born of [[circular]] and [[gaseous]] [[nebulae]], and all such primary [[nebulae]] are [[circular]] throughout the early part of their [[gaseous]] [[existence]]. As they grow older, they usually become [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spiral_nebula spiral], and when their [[function]] of [[sun]] formation has run its [[course]], they often terminate as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_cluster clusters] of [[stars]] or as enormous [[suns]] surrounded by a varying [[number]] of [[planets]], [[satellites]], and smaller [[groups]] of [[matter]] in many ways resembling your own diminutive [[solar system]].

57:2.2 800,000,000,000 years ago the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover] [[creation]] was well [[established]] as one of the [[magnificent]] primary [[nebulae]] of [[Orvonton]]. As the astronomers of near-by [[universes]] looked out upon this [[phenomenon]] of [[space]], they saw very little to [[attract]] their [[attention]]. [[Gravity]] estimates made in adjacent [[creations]] indicated that [[space]] [[materializations]] were taking place in the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover] regions, but that was all.

57:2.2 800,000,000,000 years ago the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover] [[creation]] was well [[established]] as one of the [[magnificent]] primary [[nebulae]] of [[Orvonton]]. As the astronomers of near-by [[universes]] looked out upon this [[phenomenon]] of [[space]], they saw very little to [[attract]] their [[attention]]. [[Gravity]] estimates made in adjacent [[creations]] indicated that [[space]] [[materializations]] were taking place in the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover] regions, but that was all.

57:2.3 700,000,000,000 years ago the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover] [[system]] was assuming gigantic [[proportions]], and additional [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_29#29:4._THE_MASTER_PHYSICAL_CONTROLLERS physical controllers] were dispatched to nine [[surrounding]] [[material]] [[creations]] to afford [[support]] and supply [[co-operation]] to the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_29#29:2._THE_SUPREME_POWER_CENTERS power centers] of this new [[material]] [[system]] which was so rapidly evolving. At this distant date all of the [[material]] bequeathed to the subsequent [[creations]] was held within the confines of this gigantic [[space]] wheel, which continued ever to whirl and, after reaching its maximum of [[diameter]], to whirl faster and faster as it continued to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Condensed_matter_physics condense] and contract.

57:2.3 700,000,000,000 years ago the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover] [[system]] was assuming gigantic [[proportions]], and additional [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_29#29:4._THE_MASTER_PHYSICAL_CONTROLLERS physical controllers] were dispatched to nine [[surrounding]] [[material]] [[creations]] to afford [[support]] and supply [[co-operation]] to the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_29#29:2._THE_SUPREME_POWER_CENTERS power centers] of this new [[material]] [[system]] which was so rapidly evolving. At this distant date all of the [[material]] bequeathed to the subsequent [[creations]] was held within the confines of this gigantic [[space]] wheel, which continued ever to whirl and, after reaching its maximum of [[diameter]], to whirl faster and faster as it continued to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Condensed_matter_physics condense] and contract.

57:2.4 600,000,000,000 years ago the height of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover] [[energy]]-mobilization period was [[attained]]; the [[nebula]] had acquired its maximum of [[mass]]. At this time it was a gigantic [[circular]] [[gas]] cloud in shape somewhat like a flattened [[spheroid]]. This was the early period of [[differential]] [[mass]] formation and varying [[revolutionary]] [[velocity]]. [[Gravity]] and other [[influences]] were about to begin their [[work]] of [[converting]] [[space]] [[gases]] into [[organized]] [[matter]].

57:2.4 600,000,000,000 years ago the height of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover] [[energy]]-mobilization period was [[attained]]; the [[nebula]] had acquired its maximum of [[mass]]. At this time it was a gigantic [[circular]] [[gas]] cloud in shape somewhat like a flattened [[spheroid]]. This was the early period of [[differential]] [[mass]] formation and varying [[revolutionary]] [[velocity]]. [[Gravity]] and other [[influences]] were about to begin their [[work]] of [[converting]] [[space]] [[gases]] into [[organized]] [[matter]].

==57:3. THE SECONDARY NEBULAR STAGE==   

==57:3. THE SECONDARY NEBULAR STAGE==   

57:3.1 The enormous [[nebula]] now began [[gradually]] to [[assume]] the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spiral_nebula spiral] [[form]] and to become clearly visible to the [[astronomers]] of even distant [[universes]]. This is the [[natural history]] of most [[nebulae]]; before they begin to throw off [[suns]] and start upon the [[work]] of [[universe]] building, these secondary [[space]] [[nebulae]] are usually [[observed]] as [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spiral_nebula spiral] [[phenomena]]

57:3.1 The enormous [[nebula]] now began [[gradually]] to [[assume]] the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spiral_nebula spiral] [[form]] and to become clearly visible to the [[astronomers]] of even distant [[universes]]. This is the [[natural history]] of most [[nebulae]]; before they begin to throw off [[suns]] and start upon the [[work]] of [[universe]] building, these secondary [[space]] [[nebulae]] are usually [[observed]] as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spiral_nebula spiral] [[phenomena]]

57:3.2 The near-by [[star]] [[students]] of that faraway era, as they [[observed]] this [[metamorphosis]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover nebula], saw exactly what twentieth-century astronomers see when they turn their [[telescopes]] spaceward and view the present-age [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spiral_nebula spiral nebulae] of adjacent [[outer space]].

57:3.2 The near-by [[star]] [[students]] of that faraway era, as they [[observed]] this [[metamorphosis]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover nebula], saw exactly what twentieth-century astronomers see when they turn their [[telescopes]] spaceward and view the present-age [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spiral_nebula spiral nebulae] of adjacent [[outer space]].

57:3.3 About the [[time]] of the [[attainment]] of the maximum of [[mass]], the [[gravity]] [[control]] of the [[gaseous]] [[content]] commenced to weaken, and there ensued the [[stage]] of [[gas]] [[escapement]], the gas [[streaming]] forth as [[two]] gigantic and distinct arms, which took [[origin]] on [[opposite]] sides of the [[mother]] [[mass]]. The rapid [[revolutions]] of this enormous central core soon imparted a spiral [[appearance]] to these two projecting [[gas]] [[streams]]. The cooling and subsequent [[condensation]] of portions of these protruding arms [[eventually]] produced their knotted [[appearance]]. These [[dense]]r portions were vast [[systems]] and subsystems of [[physical]] [[matter]] whirling through [[space]] in the midst of the [[gaseous]] cloud of the [[nebula]] while being held [[securely]] within the [[gravity]] grasp of the mother wheel.

57:3.3 About the [[time]] of the [[attainment]] of the maximum of [[mass]], the [[gravity]] [[control]] of the [[gaseous]] [[content]] commenced to weaken, and there ensued the [[stage]] of [[gas]] [[escapement]], the gas [[streaming]] forth as [[two]] gigantic and distinct arms, which took [[origin]] on [[opposite]] sides of the [[mother]] [[mass]]. The rapid [[revolutions]] of this enormous central core soon imparted a spiral [[appearance]] to these two projecting [[gas]] [[streams]]. The cooling and subsequent [[condensation]] of portions of these protruding arms [[eventually]] produced their knotted [[appearance]]. These [[dense]]r portions were vast [[systems]] and subsystems of [[physical]] [[matter]] whirling through [[space]] in the midst of the [[gaseous]] cloud of the [[nebula]] while being held [[securely]] within the [[gravity]] grasp of the mother wheel.

57:3.5 And this is what happened in [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover] ages upon ages ago. The [[energy]] [[wheel]] grew and grew until it [[attained]] its maximum of expansion, and then, when contraction set in, it whirled on faster and faster until, [[eventually]], the critical [[centrifugal]] [[stage]] was reached and the great breakup began.

57:3.5 And this is what happened in [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover] ages upon ages ago. The [[energy]] [[wheel]] grew and grew until it [[attained]] its maximum of expansion, and then, when contraction set in, it whirled on faster and faster until, [[eventually]], the critical [[centrifugal]] [[stage]] was reached and the great breakup began.

57:3.6 500,000,000,000 years ago the first [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover] [[sun]] was born. This blazing streak broke away from the [[mother]] [[gravity]] grasp and tore out into [[space]] on an [[independent]] [[adventure]] in the [[cosmos]] of [[creation]]. Its [[orbit]] was determined by its [[path]] of [[escape]]. Such young suns quickly become [[spherical]] and start out on their long and eventful [[careers]] as the [[stars]] of space. Excepting terminal [[nebular]] [[nucleus]]es, the vast [[majority]] of [[Orvonton]] [[suns]] have had an [[analogous]] [[birth]].[http://hea-www.harvard.edu/scied/SUN/sunpage.html] These [[escaping]] [[suns]] pass through varied periods of [[evolution]] and subsequent [[universe]] [[service]].

57:3.6 500,000,000,000 years ago the first [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover] [[sun]] was born. This blazing streak broke away from the [[mother]] [[gravity]] grasp and tore out into [[space]] on an [[independent]] [[adventure]] in the [[cosmos]] of [[creation]]. Its [[orbit]] was determined by its [[path]] of [[escape]]. Such young suns quickly become [[spherical]] and start out on their long and eventful [[careers]] as the [[stars]] of space. Excepting terminal [[nebular]] [[nucleus]]es, the vast [[majority]] of [[Orvonton]] [[suns]] have had an [[analogous]] [[birth]].[https://hea-www.harvard.edu/scied/SUN/sunpage.html] These [[escaping]] [[suns]] pass through varied periods of [[evolution]] and subsequent [[universe]] [[service]].

57:3.7 400,000,000,000 years ago began the recaptive period of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover nebula]. Many of the near-by and smaller [[suns]] were recaptured as a result of the [[gradual]] enlargement and further [[condensation]] of the [[mother]] [[nucleus]]. Very soon there was [[inaugurated]] the terminal [[phase]] of [[nebular]] [[condensation]], the period which always precedes the final [[segregation]] of these immense [[space]] [[aggregations]] of [[energy]] and [[matter]].

57:3.7 400,000,000,000 years ago began the recaptive period of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover nebula]. Many of the near-by and smaller [[suns]] were recaptured as a result of the [[gradual]] enlargement and further [[condensation]] of the [[mother]] [[nucleus]]. Very soon there was [[inaugurated]] the terminal [[phase]] of [[nebular]] [[condensation]], the period which always precedes the final [[segregation]] of these immense [[space]] [[aggregations]] of [[energy]] and [[matter]].

==57:4. TERTIARY AND QUARTAN STAGES==   

==57:4. TERTIARY AND QUARTAN STAGES==   

57:4.1 The primary [[stage]] of a [[nebula]] is [[circular]]; the secondary, spiral; the tertiary stage is that of the first [[sun]] [[dispersion]], while the quartan [[embraces]] the second and last [[cycle]] of [[sun]] dispersion, with the [[mother]] [[nucleus]] ending either as a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Globular_cluster globular cluster] or as a [[solitary]] sun [[functioning]] as the [[center]] of a terminal [[solar system]].[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nebular_hypothesis]

57:4.1 The primary [[stage]] of a [[nebula]] is [[circular]]; the secondary, spiral; the tertiary stage is that of the first [[sun]] [[dispersion]], while the quartan [[embraces]] the second and last [[cycle]] of [[sun]] dispersion, with the [[mother]] [[nucleus]] ending either as a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Globular_cluster globular cluster] or as a [[solitary]] sun [[functioning]] as the [[center]] of a terminal [[solar system]].[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nebular_hypothesis]

57:4.2 75,000,000,000 years ago this [[nebula]] had ''attained'' the height of its [[sun]]-[[family]] [[stage]]. This was the [[apex]] of the first period of sun losses. The [[majority]] of these suns have since [[possessed]] themselves of extensive [[Solar System|systems]] of [[planets]], [[satellites]], dark islands, [[comets]], [[meteors]], and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interplanetary_dust_cloud cosmic dust clouds].

57:4.2 75,000,000,000 years ago this [[nebula]] had ''attained'' the height of its [[sun]]-[[family]] [[stage]]. This was the [[apex]] of the first period of sun losses. The [[majority]] of these suns have since [[possessed]] themselves of extensive [[Solar System|systems]] of [[planets]], [[satellites]], dark islands, [[comets]], [[meteors]], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interplanetary_dust_cloud cosmic dust clouds].

57:4.3 50,000,000,000 years ago this first period of [[sun]] [[dispersion]] was completed; the [[nebula]] was fast finishing its tertiary [[cycle]] of [[existence]], during which it gave [[origin]] to 876,926 [[sun systems]].

57:4.3 50,000,000,000 years ago this first period of [[sun]] [[dispersion]] was completed; the [[nebula]] was fast finishing its tertiary [[cycle]] of [[existence]], during which it gave [[origin]] to 876,926 [[sun systems]].

57:4.7 7,000,000,000 years ago [[witnessed]] the height of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover] terminal breakup. This was the period of the [[birth]] of the larger terminal [[suns]] and the [[apex]] of the local [[physical]] disturbances.

57:4.7 7,000,000,000 years ago [[witnessed]] the height of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover] terminal breakup. This was the period of the [[birth]] of the larger terminal [[suns]] and the [[apex]] of the local [[physical]] disturbances.

57:4.8 6,000,000,000 years ago marks the end of the terminal breakup and the [[birth]] of your [[sun]][http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sun#Life_cycle], the fifty-sixth from the last of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover] second [[solar]] [[family]]. This final eruption of the [[nebular]] [[nucleus]] gave [[birth]] to 136,702 suns, most of them [[solitary]] orbs. The total [[number]] of [[suns]] and [[sun systems]] having [[origin]] in the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover nebula] was 1,013,628. The [[number]] of the [[solar system]] sun is 1,013,572.

57:4.8 6,000,000,000 years ago marks the end of the terminal breakup and the [[birth]] of your [[sun]][https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sun#Life_cycle], the fifty-sixth from the last of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover] second [[solar]] [[family]]. This final eruption of the [[nebular]] [[nucleus]] gave [[birth]] to 136,702 suns, most of them [[solitary]] orbs. The total [[number]] of [[suns]] and [[sun systems]] having [[origin]] in the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover nebula] was 1,013,628. The [[number]] of the [[solar system]] sun is 1,013,572.

57:4.9 And now the great [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover nebula] is no more, but it lives on in the many [[suns]] and their [[planetary]] [[families]] which [[originated]] in this [[mother]] cloud of [[space]]. The final [[nuclear]] remnant of this [[magnificent]] [[nebula]] still burns with a reddish [[glow]][http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sun#Life_cycle] and [[continues]] to give forth moderate [[light]] and [[heat]] to its remnant [[planetary]] [[family]] of one hundred and sixty-five worlds, which now revolve about this [[venerable]] [[mother]] of two mighty [[generations]] of the monarchs of [[light]].

57:4.9 And now the great [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_57#57:1._THE_ANDRONOVER_NEBULA Andronover nebula] is no more, but it lives on in the many [[suns]] and their [[planetary]] [[families]] which [[originated]] in this [[mother]] cloud of [[space]]. The final [[nuclear]] remnant of this [[magnificent]] [[nebula]] still burns with a reddish [[glow]][https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sun#Life_cycle] and [[continues]] to give forth moderate [[light]] and [[heat]] to its remnant [[planetary]] [[family]] of one hundred and sixty-five worlds, which now revolve about this [[venerable]] [[mother]] of two mighty [[generations]] of the monarchs of [[light]].

==57:5. ORIGIN OF MONMATIA—THE URANTIA SOLAR SYSTEM==   

==57:5. ORIGIN OF MONMATIA—THE URANTIA SOLAR SYSTEM==   

57:5.1 5,000,000,000 years ago your [[sun]] was a [[comparatively]] [[isolated]] blazing orb, having gathered to itself most of the near-by [[circulating]] [[matter]] of [[space]], remnants of the recent [[upheaval]] which attended its own [[birth]].

57:5.1 5,000,000,000 years ago your [[sun]] was a [[comparatively]] [[isolated]] blazing orb, having gathered to itself most of the near-by [[circulating]] [[matter]] of [[space]], remnants of the recent [[upheaval]] which attended its own [[birth]].

57:5.2 Today, your [[sun]] has achieved [[relative]] [[stability]], but its eleven and one-half year [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sun#Sunspots_and_the_sunspot_cycle sunspot cycles] betray that it was a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variable_star variable star] in its [[youth]]. In the early days of your [[sun]] the continued contraction and consequent [[gradual]] increase of [[temperature]] initiated tremendous convulsions on its [[surface]]. These titanic heaves required three and one-half days to complete a [[cycle]] of varying brightness. This variable state, this periodic [[pulsation]], rendered your sun highly [[responsive]] to certain outside influences which were to be shortly encountered.

57:5.2 Today, your [[sun]] has achieved [[relative]] [[stability]], but its eleven and one-half year [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sun#Sunspots_and_the_sunspot_cycle sunspot cycles] betray that it was a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variable_star variable star] in its [[youth]]. In the early days of your [[sun]] the continued contraction and consequent [[gradual]] increase of [[temperature]] initiated tremendous convulsions on its [[surface]]. These titanic heaves required three and one-half days to complete a [[cycle]] of varying brightness. This variable state, this periodic [[pulsation]], rendered your sun highly [[responsive]] to certain outside influences which were to be shortly encountered.

57:5.3 Thus was the [[stage]] of local space set for the [[unique]] [[origin]] of ''Monmatia'', that being the [[name]] of your [[sun]]'s [[planetary]] [[family]], the [[solar system]] to which your world belongs. Less than one per cent of the [[planetary]] [[systems]] of [[Orvonton]] have had a similar [[origin]].

57:5.3 Thus was the [[stage]] of local space set for the [[unique]] [[origin]] of ''Monmatia'', that being the [[name]] of your [[sun]]'s [[planetary]] [[family]], the [[solar system]] to which your world belongs. Less than one per cent of the [[planetary]] [[systems]] of [[Orvonton]] have had a similar [[origin]].

57:5.6 As the Angona system drew nearer, the [[solar]] extrusions grew larger and larger; more and more [[matter]] was drawn from the [[sun]] to become [[independent]] [[circulating]] bodies in [[surrounding]] [[space]]. This situation [[developed]] for about five hundred thousand years until Angona made its closest approach to the [[sun]]; whereupon the sun, in conjunction with one of its periodic internal convulsions, [[experienced]] a partial [[Explosion|disruption]]; from [[opposite]] sides and [[simultaneously]], enormous volumes of [[matter]] were disgorged. From the Angona side there was drawn out a vast column of [[solar]] [[gases]], rather pointed at both ends and markedly bulging at the [[center]], which became permanently detached from the [[immediate]] [[gravity]] [[control]] of the [[sun]].

57:5.6 As the Angona system drew nearer, the [[solar]] extrusions grew larger and larger; more and more [[matter]] was drawn from the [[sun]] to become [[independent]] [[circulating]] bodies in [[surrounding]] [[space]]. This situation [[developed]] for about five hundred thousand years until Angona made its closest approach to the [[sun]]; whereupon the sun, in conjunction with one of its periodic internal convulsions, [[experienced]] a partial [[Explosion|disruption]]; from [[opposite]] sides and [[simultaneously]], enormous volumes of [[matter]] were disgorged. From the Angona side there was drawn out a vast column of [[solar]] [[gases]], rather pointed at both ends and markedly bulging at the [[center]], which became permanently detached from the [[immediate]] [[gravity]] [[control]] of the [[sun]].

57:5.7 This great column of [[solar]] [[gases]] which was thus separated from the [[sun]] subsequently evolved into the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_system twelve] [[planets]] of the [[solar system]]. The repercussional ejection of [[gas]] from the [[opposite]] side of the [[sun]] in [[tidal]] [[sympathy]] with the extrusion of this gigantic [[solar system]] [[ancestor]], has since [[condensed]] into the [[meteors]] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space_dust space dust] of the [[solar system]], although much, very much, of this [[matter]] was subsequently recaptured by solar [[gravity]] as the Angona system receded into remote [[space]].

57:5.7 This great column of [[solar]] [[gases]] which was thus separated from the [[sun]] subsequently evolved into the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_system twelve] [[planets]] of the [[solar system]]. The repercussional ejection of [[gas]] from the [[opposite]] side of the [[sun]] in [[tidal]] [[sympathy]] with the extrusion of this gigantic [[solar system]] [[ancestor]], has since [[condensed]] into the [[meteors]] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space_dust space dust] of the [[solar system]], although much, very much, of this [[matter]] was subsequently recaptured by solar [[gravity]] as the Angona system receded into remote [[space]].

57:5.8 Although Angona succeeded in drawing away the [[ancestral]] [[material]] of the [[solar system]] [[planets]] and the enormous volume of [[matter]] now [[circulating]] about the [[sun]] as [[asteroids]] and [[meteors]], it did not [[secure]] for itself any of this solar [[matter]]. The visiting system did not come quite close enough to actually steal any of the sun's substance, but it did swing sufficiently close to draw off into the [[intervening]] [[space]] all of the [[material]] comprising the [[present]]-day [[solar system]].

57:5.8 Although Angona succeeded in drawing away the [[ancestral]] [[material]] of the [[solar system]] [[planets]] and the enormous volume of [[matter]] now [[circulating]] about the [[sun]] as [[asteroids]] and [[meteors]], it did not [[secure]] for itself any of this solar [[matter]]. The visiting system did not come quite close enough to actually steal any of the sun's substance, but it did swing sufficiently close to draw off into the [[intervening]] [[space]] all of the [[material]] comprising the [[present]]-day [[solar system]].

57:5.9 The five [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_System#Inner_planets inner] and five [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_System#Outer_planets outer] [[planets]] soon formed in miniature from the cooling and condensing [[nucleus]]es in the less massive and tapering ends of the gigantic [[gravity]] bulge which ''Angona'' had succeeded in detaching from the [[sun]], while [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saturn Saturn] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jupiter Jupiter] were formed from the more massive and bulging [[central]] portions. The [[powerful]] [[gravity]] pull of Jupiter and Saturn early captured most of the [[material]] stolen from ''Angona'' as the retrograde [[motion]] of certain of their [[satellites]] bears [[witness]][http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jupiter#Classification_of_moons].

57:5.9 The five [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_System#Inner_planets inner] and five [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_System#Outer_planets outer] [[planets]] soon formed in miniature from the cooling and condensing [[nucleus]]es in the less massive and tapering ends of the gigantic [[gravity]] bulge which ''Angona'' had succeeded in detaching from the [[sun]], while [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saturn Saturn] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jupiter Jupiter] were formed from the more massive and bulging [[central]] portions. The [[powerful]] [[gravity]] pull of Jupiter and Saturn early captured most of the [[material]] stolen from ''Angona'' as the retrograde [[motion]] of certain of their [[satellites]] bears [[witness]][https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jupiter#Classification_of_moons].

57:5.10 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jupiter Jupiter] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saturn Saturn], being derived from the very [[center]] of the enormous column of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetic_weapon superheated][http://www.physicsforums.com/archive/index.php/t-9951.html] [[solar]] [[gases]], contained so much highly heated [[sun]] [[material]] that they shone with a brilliant light and emitted enormous volumes of [[heat]]; they were in [[reality]] secondary suns for a short period after their formation as separate [[space]] bodies. These two largest of the [[solar system]] [[planets]] have remained largely [[gaseous]] to this day, not even yet having cooled off to the point of complete [[condensation]] or [[Solid|solidification]].

57:5.10 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jupiter Jupiter] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saturn Saturn], being derived from the very [[center]] of the enormous column of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetic_weapon superheated][https://www.physicsforums.com/archive/index.php/t-9951.html] [[solar]] [[gases]], contained so much highly heated [[sun]] [[material]] that they shone with a brilliant light and emitted enormous volumes of [[heat]]; they were in [[reality]] secondary suns for a short period after their formation as separate [[space]] bodies. These two largest of the [[solar system]] [[planets]] have remained largely [[gaseous]] to this day, not even yet having cooled off to the point of complete [[condensation]] or [[Solid|solidification]].

57:5.11 The [[gas]]-contraction [[nucleus]]es of the other ten soon reached the [[stage]] of [[solidification]] and so began to draw to themselves increasing [[quantities]] of the [[meteoric]] [[matter]] [[circulating]] in near-by [[space]]. The worlds of the [[solar system]] thus had a double [[origin]]: [[nucleus]]es of [[gas]] [[condensation]] later on augmented by the capture of enormous [[quantities]] of [[meteors]]. Indeed they still continue to capture meteors, but in greatly lessened [[numbers]].

57:5.11 The [[gas]]-contraction [[nucleus]]es of the other ten soon reached the [[stage]] of [[solidification]] and so began to draw to themselves increasing [[quantities]] of the [[meteoric]] [[matter]] [[circulating]] in near-by [[space]]. The worlds of the [[solar system]] thus had a double [[origin]]: [[nucleus]]es of [[gas]] [[condensation]] later on augmented by the capture of enormous [[quantities]] of [[meteors]]. Indeed they still continue to capture meteors, but in greatly lessened [[numbers]].

57:5.12 The [[planets]] do not swing around the [[sun]] in the [http://www.reference.com/browse/equatorial+plane equatorial plane] of their [[solar]] [[mother]], which they would do if they had been thrown off by [[solar]] [[revolution]][http://www.pdfdownload.org/pdf2html/pdf2html.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww34.homepage.villanova.edu%2Frobert.jantzen%2Fresearch%2Farticles%2Fembed.pdf&images=yes]. Rather, they travel in the plane of the Angona solar extrusion, which existed at a considerable [[angle]] to the [[plane]] of the [[sun]]'s [[equator]].

57:5.12 The [[planets]] do not swing around the [[sun]] in the [https://www.reference.com/browse/equatorial+plane equatorial plane] of their [[solar]] [[mother]], which they would do if they had been thrown off by [[solar]] [[revolution]][https://www.pdfdownload.org/pdf2html/pdf2html.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww34.homepage.villanova.edu%2Frobert.jantzen%2Fresearch%2Farticles%2Fembed.pdf&images=yes]. Rather, they travel in the plane of the Angona solar extrusion, which existed at a considerable [[angle]] to the [[plane]] of the [[sun]]'s [[equator]].

57:5.13 While Angona was unable to capture any of the [[solar]] [[mass]], your sun did add to its [[metamorphosing]] [[planetary]] [[family]] some of the [[circulating]] [[space]] [[material]] of the visiting system. Due to the [[intense]] [[gravity]] field of Angona, its tributary planetary family pursued [[orbits]] of considerable distance from the [[Black Hole|dark giant]]; and shortly after the extrusion of the [[solar system]] [[ancestral]] [[mass]] and while Angona was yet in the vicinity of the [[sun]], three of the major planets of the Angona system swung so near to the massive solar system ancestor that its [[gravitational]] pull, augmented by that of the [[sun]], was sufficient to overbalance the gravity grasp of Angona and to permanently detach these three tributaries of the [[celestial]] wanderer.

57:5.13 While Angona was unable to capture any of the [[solar]] [[mass]], your sun did add to its [[metamorphosing]] [[planetary]] [[family]] some of the [[circulating]] [[space]] [[material]] of the visiting system. Due to the [[intense]] [[gravity]] field of Angona, its tributary planetary family pursued [[orbits]] of considerable distance from the [[Black Hole|dark giant]]; and shortly after the extrusion of the [[solar system]] [[ancestral]] [[mass]] and while Angona was yet in the vicinity of the [[sun]], three of the major planets of the Angona system swung so near to the massive solar system ancestor that its [[gravitational]] pull, augmented by that of the [[sun]], was sufficient to overbalance the gravity grasp of Angona and to permanently detach these three tributaries of the [[celestial]] wanderer.

57:6.1 Subsequent to the [[birth]] of the [[solar system]] a period of diminishing [[solar]] disgorgement ensued. Decreasingly, for another five hundred thousand years, the [[sun]] continued to pour forth diminishing volumes of [[matter]] into [[surrounding]] [[space]]. But during these early times of erratic [[orbits]], when the [[surrounding]] bodies made their nearest approach to the [[sun]], the solar parent was able to recapture a large portion of this [[meteoric]] [[material]].

57:6.1 Subsequent to the [[birth]] of the [[solar system]] a period of diminishing [[solar]] disgorgement ensued. Decreasingly, for another five hundred thousand years, the [[sun]] continued to pour forth diminishing volumes of [[matter]] into [[surrounding]] [[space]]. But during these early times of erratic [[orbits]], when the [[surrounding]] bodies made their nearest approach to the [[sun]], the solar parent was able to recapture a large portion of this [[meteoric]] [[material]].

57:6.2 The [[planets]] nearest the [[sun]] were the first to have their [[revolutions]] slowed down by [[tidal]] [[friction]]. Such [[gravitational]] [[influences]] also [[contribute]] to the [[stabilization]] of [[planetary]] [[orbits]] while [[acting]] as a brake on the [[rate]] of planetary-[[axial]] [[revolution]], causing a [[planet]] to revolve ever slower until axial revolution ceases, leaving one hemisphere of the [[planet]] always turned toward the [[sun]] or larger body, as is [[illustrated]] by the [[planet]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercury_(planet) Mercury] and by the [[moon]], which always turns the same face toward [[Urantia]].

57:6.2 The [[planets]] nearest the [[sun]] were the first to have their [[revolutions]] slowed down by [[tidal]] [[friction]]. Such [[gravitational]] [[influences]] also [[contribute]] to the [[stabilization]] of [[planetary]] [[orbits]] while [[acting]] as a brake on the [[rate]] of planetary-[[axial]] [[revolution]], causing a [[planet]] to revolve ever slower until axial revolution ceases, leaving one hemisphere of the [[planet]] always turned toward the [[sun]] or larger body, as is [[illustrated]] by the [[planet]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercury_(planet) Mercury] and by the [[moon]], which always turns the same face toward [[Urantia]].

57:6.3 When the [[tidal]] [[frictions]] of the [[moon]] and the [[earth]] become [[equalized]], the [[earth]] will always turn the same hemisphere toward the [[moon]], and the day and month will be [[analogous]]—in length about forty-seven days. When such [[stability]] of [[orbits]] is [[attained]], [[tidal]] [[frictions]] will go into reverse [[action]], no longer driving the [[moon]] farther away from the [[earth]] but [[gradually]] drawing the [[satellite]] toward the [[planet]]. And then, in that far-distant [[future]] when the [[moon]] approaches to within about eleven thousand miles of the [[earth]], the [[gravity]] [[action]] of the latter will cause the moon to disrupt, and this [[tidal]]-[[gravity]] [[explosion]] will shatter the [[moon]] into small [[particles]], which may assemble about the world as rings of [[matter]] resembling those of [http://www.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saturn Saturn] or may be [[gradually]] drawn into the [[earth]] as [[meteors]].

57:6.3 When the [[tidal]] [[frictions]] of the [[moon]] and the [[earth]] become [[equalized]], the [[earth]] will always turn the same hemisphere toward the [[moon]], and the day and month will be [[analogous]]—in length about forty-seven days. When such [[stability]] of [[orbits]] is [[attained]], [[tidal]] [[frictions]] will go into reverse [[action]], no longer driving the [[moon]] farther away from the [[earth]] but [[gradually]] drawing the [[satellite]] toward the [[planet]]. And then, in that far-distant [[future]] when the [[moon]] approaches to within about eleven thousand miles of the [[earth]], the [[gravity]] [[action]] of the latter will cause the moon to disrupt, and this [[tidal]]-[[gravity]] [[explosion]] will shatter the [[moon]] into small [[particles]], which may assemble about the world as rings of [[matter]] resembling those of [https://www.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saturn Saturn] or may be [[gradually]] drawn into the [[earth]] as [[meteors]].

57:6.4 If space bodies are similar in size and [[density]], collisions may occur. But if two space bodies of similar [[density]] are [[relatively]] unequal in size, then, if the smaller [[progressively]] approaches the larger, the [[disruption]] of the smaller body will occur when the [[radius]] of its [[orbit]] becomes less than two and one-half times the [[radius]] of the larger body. Collisions among the giants of space are rare indeed, but these [[gravity]]-[[tidal]] [[explosions]] of lesser bodies are quite common.

57:6.4 If space bodies are similar in size and [[density]], collisions may occur. But if two space bodies of similar [[density]] are [[relatively]] unequal in size, then, if the smaller [[progressively]] approaches the larger, the [[disruption]] of the smaller body will occur when the [[radius]] of its [[orbit]] becomes less than two and one-half times the [[radius]] of the larger body. Collisions among the giants of space are rare indeed, but these [[gravity]]-[[tidal]] [[explosions]] of lesser bodies are quite common.

57:6.5 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meteor_shower Shooting stars] occur in swarms because they are the [[fragments]] of larger bodies of [[matter]] which have been [[disrupted]] by [[tidal]] [[gravity]] exerted by near-by and still larger space bodies. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saturn Saturn's] rings are the [[fragments]] of a [[disrupted]] [[satellite]]. One of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jupiter#Moons moons of Jupiter] is now approaching [[dangerously]] near the critical zone of [[tidal]] [[disruption]] and, within a few million years, will either be claimed by the [[planet]] or will undergo [[gravity]]-[[tidal]] [[disruption]]. The fifth planet of the [[solar system]] of long, long ago traversed an irregular [[orbit]], [[periodically]] making closer and closer approach to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jupiter Jupiter] until it entered the critical zone of gravity-tidal disruption, was swiftly [[fragmentized]], and became the present-day cluster of [[asteroids]].

57:6.5 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meteor_shower Shooting stars] occur in swarms because they are the [[fragments]] of larger bodies of [[matter]] which have been [[disrupted]] by [[tidal]] [[gravity]] exerted by near-by and still larger space bodies. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saturn Saturn's] rings are the [[fragments]] of a [[disrupted]] [[satellite]]. One of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jupiter#Moons moons of Jupiter] is now approaching [[dangerously]] near the critical zone of [[tidal]] [[disruption]] and, within a few million years, will either be claimed by the [[planet]] or will undergo [[gravity]]-[[tidal]] [[disruption]]. The fifth planet of the [[solar system]] of long, long ago traversed an irregular [[orbit]], [[periodically]] making closer and closer approach to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jupiter Jupiter] until it entered the critical zone of gravity-tidal disruption, was swiftly [[fragmentized]], and became the present-day cluster of [[asteroids]].

57:6.6 4,000,000,000 years ago [[witnessed]] the [[organization]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jupiter Jupiter] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saturn Saturn] systems much as [[observed]] today except for their moons, which continued to increase in size for several billions of years. In [[fact]], all of the [[planets]] and [[satellites]] of the [[solar system]] are still growing as the result of continued [[meteoric]] captures.

57:6.6 4,000,000,000 years ago [[witnessed]] the [[organization]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jupiter Jupiter] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saturn Saturn] systems much as [[observed]] today except for their moons, which continued to increase in size for several billions of years. In [[fact]], all of the [[planets]] and [[satellites]] of the [[solar system]] are still growing as the result of continued [[meteoric]] captures.

57:6.7 3,500,000,000 years ago the [[condensation]] [[nucleus]]es of the other ten [[planets]] were well formed, and the cores of most of the moons were intact, though some of the smaller [[satellites]] later united to make the present-day larger moons. This age may be regarded as the era of [[planet]]ary assembly.

57:6.7 3,500,000,000 years ago the [[condensation]] [[nucleus]]es of the other ten [[planets]] were well formed, and the cores of most of the moons were intact, though some of the smaller [[satellites]] later united to make the present-day larger moons. This age may be regarded as the era of [[planet]]ary assembly.

==57:7. THE METEORIC ERA—THE VOLCANIC AGE-THE PRIMITIVE PLANETARY ATMOSPHERE==

==57:7. THE METEORIC ERA—THE VOLCANIC AGE-THE PRIMITIVE PLANETARY ATMOSPHERE==

57:7.1 Throughout these early times the [[space]] regions of the [[solar system]] were swarming with small [[disruptive]] and [[condensation]] bodies, and in the [[absence]] of a protective [[combustion]] [[atmosphere]] such space bodies crashed directly on the [[surface]] of [[Urantia]]. These incessant impacts kept the [[surface]] of the planet more or less [[heated]], and this, [[together]] with the increased [[action]] of [[gravity]] as the [[sphere]] grew larger, began to set in operation those [[influences]] which [[gradually]] caused the heavier [[elements]], such as [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iron iron], to settle more and more toward the [[center]] of the [[planet]].

57:7.1 Throughout these early times the [[space]] regions of the [[solar system]] were swarming with small [[disruptive]] and [[condensation]] bodies, and in the [[absence]] of a protective [[combustion]] [[atmosphere]] such space bodies crashed directly on the [[surface]] of [[Urantia]]. These incessant impacts kept the [[surface]] of the planet more or less [[heated]], and this, [[together]] with the increased [[action]] of [[gravity]] as the [[sphere]] grew larger, began to set in operation those [[influences]] which [[gradually]] caused the heavier [[elements]], such as [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iron iron], to settle more and more toward the [[center]] of the [[planet]].

57:7.2 2,000,000,000 years ago the [[earth]] began decidedly to gain on the [[moon]]. Always had the [[planet]] been larger than its [[satellite]], but there was not so much [[difference]] in size until about this time, when enormous space bodies were captured by the [[earth]]. [[Urantia]] was then about one fifth its present size and had become large enough to hold the [[primitive]] [[atmosphere]] which had begun to appear as a result of the internal elemental [[Competition|contest]] between the heated interior and the cooling crust.

57:7.2 2,000,000,000 years ago the [[earth]] began decidedly to gain on the [[moon]]. Always had the [[planet]] been larger than its [[satellite]], but there was not so much [[difference]] in size until about this time, when enormous space bodies were captured by the [[earth]]. [[Urantia]] was then about one fifth its present size and had become large enough to hold the [[primitive]] [[atmosphere]] which had begun to appear as a result of the internal elemental [[Competition|contest]] between the heated interior and the cooling crust.

57:7.3 Definite [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volcano volcanic] [[action]] dates from these times. The internal [[heat]] of the [[earth]] continued to be augmented by the deeper and deeper burial of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radioactive_decay radioactive] or heavier [[elements]] brought in from [[space]] by the [[meteors]]. The [[study]] of these [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radioactive_decay radioactive] [[elements]] will [[reveal]] that [[Urantia]] is more than one billion years old on its [[surface]].[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Geologic_timescale] The [http://www.lateralscience.co.uk/radium/strutt.html radium clock (?)] is your most reliable timepiece for making [[scientific]] estimates of the age of the [[planet]], but all such estimates are too short because the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radioactive_decay radioactive] [[materials]] open to your scrutiny are all derived from the [[earth]]'s [[surface]] and hence [[represent]] [[Urantia]]'s comparatively recent acquirements of these [[elements]].

57:7.3 Definite [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volcano volcanic] [[action]] dates from these times. The internal [[heat]] of the [[earth]] continued to be augmented by the deeper and deeper burial of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radioactive_decay radioactive] or heavier [[elements]] brought in from [[space]] by the [[meteors]]. The [[study]] of these [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radioactive_decay radioactive] [[elements]] will [[reveal]] that [[Urantia]] is more than one billion years old on its [[surface]].[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Geologic_timescale] The [https://www.lateralscience.co.uk/radium/strutt.html radium clock (?)] is your most reliable timepiece for making [[scientific]] estimates of the age of the [[planet]], but all such estimates are too short because the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radioactive_decay radioactive] [[materials]] open to your scrutiny are all derived from the [[earth]]'s [[surface]] and hence [[represent]] [[Urantia]]'s comparatively recent acquirements of these [[elements]].

57:7.4 1,500,000,000 years ago the [[earth]] was two thirds its present size, while the [[moon]] was nearing its present [[mass]]. [[Earth]]'s rapid gain over the [[moon]] in size enabled it to begin the slow robbery of the little [[atmosphere]] which its [[satellite]] originally had.

57:7.4 1,500,000,000 years ago the [[earth]] was two thirds its present size, while the [[moon]] was nearing its present [[mass]]. [[Earth]]'s rapid gain over the [[moon]] in size enabled it to begin the slow robbery of the little [[atmosphere]] which its [[satellite]] originally had.

57:7.5 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volcano Volcanic] [[action]] is now at its height. The whole [[earth]] is a veritable fiery inferno, the [[surface]] resembling its earlier molten state before the heavier metals gravitated toward the [[center]]. This is the volcanic age. Nevertheless, a crust, consisting chiefly of the comparatively lighter [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Granite granite], is [[gradually]] [[forming]]. The [[stage]] is being set for a [[planet]] which can someday [[support]] life.

57:7.5 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volcano Volcanic] [[action]] is now at its height. The whole [[earth]] is a veritable fiery inferno, the [[surface]] resembling its earlier molten state before the heavier metals gravitated toward the [[center]]. This is the volcanic age. Nevertheless, a crust, consisting chiefly of the comparatively lighter [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Granite granite], is [[gradually]] [[forming]]. The [[stage]] is being set for a [[planet]] which can someday [[support]] life.

57:7.6 The [[primitive]] [[planetary]] [[atmosphere]] is slowly evolving, now containing some [[water]] vapor, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_monoxide carbon monoxide], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_dioxide carbon dioxide], and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrogen_chloride hydrogen chloride], but there is little or no free [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nitrogen nitrogen] or free [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxygen oxygen]. The [[atmosphere]] of a world in the volcanic age presents a queer [[spectacle]]. In addition to the [[gases]] enumerated it is heavily charged with numerous volcanic gases and, as the [[air]] belt matures, with the [[combustion]] products of the heavy [[meteoric]] showers which are constantly hurtling in upon the [[planetary]] [[surface]]. Such [[meteoric]] combustion keeps the [[atmospheric]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxygen oxygen] very nearly exhausted, and the [[rate]] of meteoric bombardment is still tremendous.

57:7.6 The [[primitive]] [[planetary]] [[atmosphere]] is slowly evolving, now containing some [[water]] vapor, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_monoxide carbon monoxide], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_dioxide carbon dioxide], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrogen_chloride hydrogen chloride], but there is little or no free [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nitrogen nitrogen] or free [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxygen oxygen]. The [[atmosphere]] of a world in the volcanic age presents a queer [[spectacle]]. In addition to the [[gases]] enumerated it is heavily charged with numerous volcanic gases and, as the [[air]] belt matures, with the [[combustion]] products of the heavy [[meteoric]] showers which are constantly hurtling in upon the [[planetary]] [[surface]]. Such [[meteoric]] combustion keeps the [[atmospheric]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxygen oxygen] very nearly exhausted, and the [[rate]] of meteoric bombardment is still tremendous.

57:7.7 Presently, the [[atmosphere]] became more settled and cooled sufficiently to start [[precipitation]] of rain on the hot rocky [[surface]] of the [[planet]]. For thousands of years [[Urantia]] was enveloped in one vast and continuous blanket of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steam steam]. And during these ages the [[sun]] never shone upon the [[earth]]'s [[surface]].

57:7.7 Presently, the [[atmosphere]] became more settled and cooled sufficiently to start [[precipitation]] of rain on the hot rocky [[surface]] of the [[planet]]. For thousands of years [[Urantia]] was enveloped in one vast and continuous blanket of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steam steam]. And during these ages the [[sun]] never shone upon the [[earth]]'s [[surface]].

57:7.8 Much of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon carbon] of the [[atmosphere]] was abstracted to form the carbonates of the various metals which abounded in the superficial layers of the [[planet]]. Later on, much greater [[quantities]] of these carbon [[gases]] were consumed by the early and prolific [[plant]] life.

57:7.8 Much of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon carbon] of the [[atmosphere]] was abstracted to form the carbonates of the various metals which abounded in the superficial layers of the [[planet]]. Later on, much greater [[quantities]] of these carbon [[gases]] were consumed by the early and prolific [[plant]] life.

57:7.9 Even in the later periods the continuing [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lava lava] [[flows]] and the incoming [[meteors]] kept the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxygen oxygen] of the [[air]] almost completely used up. Even the early deposits of the soon appearing [[primitive]] [[ocean]] contain no colored stones or [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shale shales]. And for a long time after this [[ocean]] appeared, there was [[virtually]] no free oxygen in the [[atmosphere]]; and it did not appear in significant [[quantities]] until it was later generated by the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seaweed seaweeds] and other forms of vegetable life.

57:7.9 Even in the later periods the continuing [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lava lava] [[flows]] and the incoming [[meteors]] kept the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxygen oxygen] of the [[air]] almost completely used up. Even the early deposits of the soon appearing [[primitive]] [[ocean]] contain no colored stones or [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shale shales]. And for a long time after this [[ocean]] appeared, there was [[virtually]] no free oxygen in the [[atmosphere]]; and it did not appear in significant [[quantities]] until it was later generated by the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seaweed seaweeds] and other forms of vegetable life.

57:7.10 The [[primitive]] [[planetary]] [[atmosphere]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volcano volcanic] age affords little [[protection]] against the collisional impacts of the [[meteoric]] swarms. Millions upon millions of [[meteors]] are able to penetrate such an [[air]] belt to smash against the [[planetary]] crust as solid bodies. But as [[time]] passes, fewer and fewer prove large enough to [[resist]] the ever-stronger [[friction]] shield of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxygen oxygen]-enriching [[atmosphere]] of the later eras.

57:7.10 The [[primitive]] [[planetary]] [[atmosphere]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volcano volcanic] age affords little [[protection]] against the collisional impacts of the [[meteoric]] swarms. Millions upon millions of [[meteors]] are able to penetrate such an [[air]] belt to smash against the [[planetary]] crust as solid bodies. But as [[time]] passes, fewer and fewer prove large enough to [[resist]] the ever-stronger [[friction]] shield of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxygen oxygen]-enriching [[atmosphere]] of the later eras.

==57:8. CRUSTAL STABILIZATION-THE AGE OF EARTHQUAKES-THE WORLD OCEAN AND THE FIRST CONTINENT==

==57:8. CRUSTAL STABILIZATION-THE AGE OF EARTHQUAKES-THE WORLD OCEAN AND THE FIRST CONTINENT==

57:8.1 1,000,000,000 years ago is the date of the [[actual]] beginning of [[Urantia]] [[history]]. The [[planet]] had attained approximately its present size. And about this [[time]] it was placed upon the [[physical]] registries of [[Nebadon]] and given its [[name]], [[Urantia]].

57:8.1 1,000,000,000 years ago is the date of the [[actual]] beginning of [[Urantia]] [[history]]. The [[planet]] had attained approximately its present size. And about this [[time]] it was placed upon the [[physical]] registries of [[Nebadon]] and given its [[name]], [[Urantia]].

57:8.2 The [[atmosphere]], [[together]] with incessant moisture [[precipitation]], [[facilitated]] the cooling of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth%27s_crust earth's crust]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volcano Volcanic] action early [[equalized]] internal-[[heat]] [[pressure]] and crustal contraction; and as volcanoes rapidly decreased, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earthquakes earthquakes] made their [[appearance]] as this [[epoch]] of crustal cooling and [[adjustment]] [[progressed]].

57:8.2 The [[atmosphere]], [[together]] with incessant moisture [[precipitation]], [[facilitated]] the cooling of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth%27s_crust earth's crust]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volcano Volcanic] action early [[equalized]] internal-[[heat]] [[pressure]] and crustal contraction; and as volcanoes rapidly decreased, [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earthquakes earthquakes] made their [[appearance]] as this [[epoch]] of crustal cooling and [[adjustment]] [[progressed]].

57:8.3 The real [[geologic]] [[history]] of [[Urantia]] begins with the cooling of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth%27s_crust earth's crust] sufficiently to [[cause]] the formation of the first [[ocean]]. [[Water]]-vapor [[condensation]] on the cooling [[surface]] of the [[earth]], once begun, continued until it was [[virtually]] complete. By the end of this period the [[ocean]] was world-wide, covering the entire [[planet]] to an average depth of over one mile. The [[tides]] were then in play much as they are now [[observed]], but this [[primitive]] ocean was not [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salt_water salty]; it was practically a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fresh_water fresh-water] covering for the world. In those days, most of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chlorine chlorine] was combined with various metals, but there was enough, in [[union]] with [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrogen hydrogen], to render this [[water]] faintly acid.

57:8.3 The real [[geologic]] [[history]] of [[Urantia]] begins with the cooling of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth%27s_crust earth's crust] sufficiently to [[cause]] the formation of the first [[ocean]]. [[Water]]-vapor [[condensation]] on the cooling [[surface]] of the [[earth]], once begun, continued until it was [[virtually]] complete. By the end of this period the [[ocean]] was world-wide, covering the entire [[planet]] to an average depth of over one mile. The [[tides]] were then in play much as they are now [[observed]], but this [[primitive]] ocean was not [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salt_water salty]; it was practically a [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fresh_water fresh-water] covering for the world. In those days, most of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chlorine chlorine] was combined with various metals, but there was enough, in [[union]] with [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrogen hydrogen], to render this [[water]] faintly acid.

57:8.4 At the opening of this faraway era, [[Urantia]] should be envisaged as a [[water]]-bound planet. Later on, deeper and hence denser [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lava lava] flows came out upon the bottom of the present [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_Ocean Pacific Ocean], and this part of the [[water]]-covered [[surface]] became considerably depressed. The first continental [[land]] mass emerged from the world [[ocean]] in compensatory [[adjustment]] of the [[equilibrium]] of the [[gradually]] thickening [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth%27s_crust earth's crust].

57:8.4 At the opening of this faraway era, [[Urantia]] should be envisaged as a [[water]]-bound planet. Later on, deeper and hence denser [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lava lava] flows came out upon the bottom of the present [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_Ocean Pacific Ocean], and this part of the [[water]]-covered [[surface]] became considerably depressed. The first continental [[land]] mass emerged from the world [[ocean]] in compensatory [[adjustment]] of the [[equilibrium]] of the [[gradually]] thickening [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth%27s_crust earth's crust].

57:8.5 950,000,000 years ago [[Urantia]] presents the picture of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pangaea one great continent] of [[land]] and one large body of [[water]], the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_Ocean Pacific Ocean]. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volcanoes Volcanoes] are still widespread and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earthquakes earthquakes] are both frequent and severe. [[Meteors]] continue to bombard the [[earth]], but they are diminishing in both [[frequency]] and size. The [[atmosphere]] is clearing up, but the amount of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_dioxide carbon dioxide] continues large. The earth's crust is gradually [[stabilizing]].

57:8.5 950,000,000 years ago [[Urantia]] presents the picture of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pangaea one great continent] of [[land]] and one large body of [[water]], the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_Ocean Pacific Ocean]. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volcanoes Volcanoes] are still widespread and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earthquakes earthquakes] are both frequent and severe. [[Meteors]] continue to bombard the [[earth]], but they are diminishing in both [[frequency]] and size. The [[atmosphere]] is clearing up, but the amount of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_dioxide carbon dioxide] continues large. The earth's crust is gradually [[stabilizing]].

57:8.6 It was at about this [[time]] that [[Urantia]] was assigned to [[the system]] of [[Satania]] for [[planetary]] [[administration]] and was placed on the life registry of [[Norlatiadek]]. Then began the [[administrative]] [[recognition]] of the small and insignificant [[sphere]] which was [[destined]] to be the [[planet]] whereon [[Michael]] would subsequently [[engage]] in the stupendous undertaking of [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_119#119:7._THE_SEVENTH_AND_FINAL_BESTOWAL mortal bestowal], would [[participate]] in those [[experiences]] which have since caused [[Urantia]] to become locally known as the "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_188#188:4._MEANING_OF_THE_DEATH_ON_THE_CROSS world of the cross]."

57:8.6 It was at about this [[time]] that [[Urantia]] was assigned to [[the system]] of [[Satania]] for [[planetary]] [[administration]] and was placed on the life registry of [[Norlatiadek]]. Then began the [[administrative]] [[recognition]] of the small and insignificant [[sphere]] which was [[destined]] to be the [[planet]] whereon [[Michael]] would subsequently [[engage]] in the stupendous undertaking of [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_119#119:7._THE_SEVENTH_AND_FINAL_BESTOWAL mortal bestowal], would [[participate]] in those [[experiences]] which have since caused [[Urantia]] to become locally known as the "[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_188#188:4._MEANING_OF_THE_DEATH_ON_THE_CROSS world of the cross]."

57:8.10 Shortly after [[Urantia]] was first [[recognized]] on the [[universe broadcasts]] to all [[Nebadon]], it was accorded full [[universe]] [[status]]. Soon thereafter it was registered in the [[records]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_15#15:13._THE_SECTOR_GOVERNMENTS minor and the major sector headquarters] [[planets]] of the [[superuniverse]]; and before this age was over, [[Urantia]] had found entry on the planetary-life registry of [[Uversa]].

57:8.10 Shortly after [[Urantia]] was first [[recognized]] on the [[universe broadcasts]] to all [[Nebadon]], it was accorded full [[universe]] [[status]]. Soon thereafter it was registered in the [[records]] of the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_15#15:13._THE_SECTOR_GOVERNMENTS minor and the major sector headquarters] [[planets]] of the [[superuniverse]]; and before this age was over, [[Urantia]] had found entry on the planetary-life registry of [[Uversa]].

57:8.11 This entire [[age]] was characterized by frequent and [[violent]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Storm storms]. The early [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth_crust crust of the earth] was in a state of continual [[flux]]. [[Surface]] cooling alternated with immense [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lava lava] [[flows]]. Nowhere can there be found on the [[surface]] of the world anything of this [[original]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth_crust planetary crust]. It has all been mixed up too many times with extruding lavas of deep [[origins]] and admixed with subsequent deposits of the early world-wide [[ocean]].

57:8.11 This entire [[age]] was characterized by frequent and [[violent]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Storm storms]. The early [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth_crust crust of the earth] was in a state of continual [[flux]]. [[Surface]] cooling alternated with immense [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lava lava] [[flows]]. Nowhere can there be found on the [[surface]] of the world anything of this [[original]] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth_crust planetary crust]. It has all been mixed up too many times with extruding lavas of deep [[origins]] and admixed with subsequent deposits of the early world-wide [[ocean]].

57:8.12 Nowhere on the [[surface]] of the world will there be found more of the [[modified]] remnants of these ancient preocean [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocks rocks] than in northeastern Canada around [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hudson_Bay Hudson Bay]. This extensive [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Granite granite] elevation is [[composed]] of stone belonging to the preoceanic ages. These rock layers have been [[heated]], bent, twisted, upcrumpled, and again and again have they passed through these distorting [[metamorphic]] [[experiences]].

57:8.12 Nowhere on the [[surface]] of the world will there be found more of the [[modified]] remnants of these ancient preocean [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocks rocks] than in northeastern Canada around [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hudson_Bay Hudson Bay]. This extensive [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Granite granite] elevation is [[composed]] of stone belonging to the preoceanic ages. These rock layers have been [[heated]], bent, twisted, upcrumpled, and again and again have they passed through these distorting [[metamorphic]] [[experiences]].

57:8.13 Throughout the [[ocean]]ic ages, enormous layers of [[fossil]]-free stratified stone were deposited on this ancient [[ocean]] bottom. ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Limestone Limestone] can [[form]] as a result of [[chemical]] [[precipitation]]; not all of the older limestone was produced by [[marine]]-life deposition.) In none of these ancient rock formations will there be found [[evidences]] of life; they contain no [[fossils]] unless, by some [[chance]], later deposits of the [[water]] ages have become mixed with these older prelife layers.

57:8.13 Throughout the [[ocean]]ic ages, enormous layers of [[fossil]]-free stratified stone were deposited on this ancient [[ocean]] bottom. ([https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Limestone Limestone] can [[form]] as a result of [[chemical]] [[precipitation]]; not all of the older limestone was produced by [[marine]]-life deposition.) In none of these ancient rock formations will there be found [[evidences]] of life; they contain no [[fossils]] unless, by some [[chance]], later deposits of the [[water]] ages have become mixed with these older prelife layers.

57:8.14 The [[earth]]'s early [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth_crust crust] was highly unstable, but [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mountains mountains] were not in [[process]] of formation. The [[planet]] contracted under [[gravity]] [[pressure]] as it formed. Mountains are not the result of the collapse of the cooling crust of a contracting [[sphere]]; they appear later on as a result of the [[action]] of rain, [[gravity]], and erosion.

57:8.14 The [[earth]]'s early [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth_crust crust] was highly unstable, but [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mountains mountains] were not in [[process]] of formation. The [[planet]] contracted under [[gravity]] [[pressure]] as it formed. Mountains are not the result of the collapse of the cooling crust of a contracting [[sphere]]; they appear later on as a result of the [[action]] of rain, [[gravity]], and erosion.

57:8.15 The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pangea continental land mass] of this [[era]] increased until it covered almost ten per cent of the [[earth]]'s [[surface]]. Severe [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earthquakes earthquakes] did not begin until the continental mass of [[land]] emerged well above the [[water]]. When they once began, they increased in [[frequency]] and severity for ages. For millions upon millions of years [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earthquakes earthquakes] have diminished, but [[Urantia]] still has an average of fifteen daily.

57:8.15 The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pangea continental land mass] of this [[era]] increased until it covered almost ten per cent of the [[earth]]'s [[surface]]. Severe [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earthquakes earthquakes] did not begin until the continental mass of [[land]] emerged well above the [[water]]. When they once began, they increased in [[frequency]] and severity for ages. For millions upon millions of years [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earthquakes earthquakes] have diminished, but [[Urantia]] still has an average of fifteen daily.

57:8.16 850,000,000 years ago the first real [[epoch]] of the [[stabilization]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth_crust earth's crust] began. Most of the heavier metals had settled down toward the [[center]] of the globe; the cooling crust had ceased to cave in on such an extensive [[scale]] as in former ages. There was [[established]] a better [[balance]] between the [[land]] extrusion and the heavier [[ocean]] bed. The [[flow]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth_crust subcrustal] lava bed became well-nigh world-wide, and this [[compensated]] and [[stabilized]] the fluctuations due to cooling, contracting, and superficial shifting.

57:8.16 850,000,000 years ago the first real [[epoch]] of the [[stabilization]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth_crust earth's crust] began. Most of the heavier metals had settled down toward the [[center]] of the globe; the cooling crust had ceased to cave in on such an extensive [[scale]] as in former ages. There was [[established]] a better [[balance]] between the [[land]] extrusion and the heavier [[ocean]] bed. The [[flow]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth_crust subcrustal] lava bed became well-nigh world-wide, and this [[compensated]] and [[stabilized]] the fluctuations due to cooling, contracting, and superficial shifting.

57:8.17 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volcanoes Volcanic] [[eruptions]] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earthquakes earthquakes] continued to diminish in [[frequency]] and severity. The [[atmosphere]] was clearing of volcanic [[gases]] and [[water]] vapor, but the percentage of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_dioxide carbon dioxide] was still high.

57:8.17 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volcanoes Volcanic] [[eruptions]] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earthquakes earthquakes] continued to diminish in [[frequency]] and severity. The [[atmosphere]] was clearing of volcanic [[gases]] and [[water]] vapor, but the percentage of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_dioxide carbon dioxide] was still high.

57:8.18 [[Electric]] disturbances in the [[air]] and in the [[earth]] were also decreasing. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lava lava] flows had brought to the [[surface]] a mixture of [[elements]] which [[diversified]] the crust and better [[insulated]] the [[planet]] from certain [[space]]-[[energies]]. And all of this did much to [[facilitate]] the [[control]] of [[terrestrial]] [[energy]] and to regulate its [[flow]] as is disclosed by the [[functioning]] of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poles_of_astronomical_bodies magnetic poles].

57:8.18 [[Electric]] disturbances in the [[air]] and in the [[earth]] were also decreasing. The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lava lava] flows had brought to the [[surface]] a mixture of [[elements]] which [[diversified]] the crust and better [[insulated]] the [[planet]] from certain [[space]]-[[energies]]. And all of this did much to [[facilitate]] the [[control]] of [[terrestrial]] [[energy]] and to regulate its [[flow]] as is disclosed by the [[functioning]] of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poles_of_astronomical_bodies magnetic poles].

57:8.19 800,000,000 years ago [[witnessed]] the [[inauguration]] of the first great [[land]] [[epoch]], the age of increased continental [[emergence]].

57:8.19 800,000,000 years ago [[witnessed]] the [[inauguration]] of the first great [[land]] [[epoch]], the age of increased continental [[emergence]].

57:8.20 Since the [[condensation]] of the [[earth]]'s hydrosphere, first into the world [[ocean]] and subsequently into the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_Ocean Pacific Ocean], this latter body of [[water]] should be [[visualized]] as then covering nine tenths of the [[earth]]'s [[surface]]. [[Meteors]] falling into the sea accumulated on the [[ocean]] bottom, and [[meteors]] are, generally speaking, composed of heavy [[materials]]. Those falling on the [[land]] were largely oxidized, subsequently worn down by erosion, and washed into the ocean basins. Thus the [[ocean]] bottom grew increasingly heavy, and added to this was the weight of a body of [[water]] at some places ten miles deep.

57:8.20 Since the [[condensation]] of the [[earth]]'s hydrosphere, first into the world [[ocean]] and subsequently into the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_Ocean Pacific Ocean], this latter body of [[water]] should be [[visualized]] as then covering nine tenths of the [[earth]]'s [[surface]]. [[Meteors]] falling into the sea accumulated on the [[ocean]] bottom, and [[meteors]] are, generally speaking, composed of heavy [[materials]]. Those falling on the [[land]] were largely oxidized, subsequently worn down by erosion, and washed into the ocean basins. Thus the [[ocean]] bottom grew increasingly heavy, and added to this was the weight of a body of [[water]] at some places ten miles deep.

57:8.21 The increasing downthrust of the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_Ocean Pacific Ocean] operated further to upthrust the continental land mass. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Europe Europe] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Africa Africa] began to rise out of the Pacific depths along with those masses now called [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australia Australia], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_America North] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_America South America], and the continent of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antarctica Antarctica], while the bed of the Pacific Ocean [[engaged]] in a further compensatory sinking [[adjustment]]. By the end of this period almost one third of the [[earth]]'s [[surface]] consisted of [[land]], all in one continental body.

57:8.21 The increasing downthrust of the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_Ocean Pacific Ocean] operated further to upthrust the continental land mass. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Europe Europe] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Africa Africa] began to rise out of the Pacific depths along with those masses now called [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australia Australia], [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_America North] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_America South America], and the continent of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antarctica Antarctica], while the bed of the Pacific Ocean [[engaged]] in a further compensatory sinking [[adjustment]]. By the end of this period almost one third of the [[earth]]'s [[surface]] consisted of [[land]], all in one continental body.

57:8.22 With this increase in land elevation the first climatic [[differences]] of the [[planet]] [[appeared]]. Land elevation, cosmic clouds, and oceanic [[influences]] are the chief [[factors]] in climatic fluctuation. The backbone of the Asiatic land mass reached a height of almost nine miles at the time of the maximum [[land]] [[emergence]]. Had there been much moisture in the [[air]] hovering over these highly elevated regions, enormous ice blankets would have formed; the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ice_age ice age] would have arrived long before it did. It was several hundred millions of years before so much [[land]] again appeared above [[water]].

57:8.22 With this increase in land elevation the first climatic [[differences]] of the [[planet]] [[appeared]]. Land elevation, cosmic clouds, and oceanic [[influences]] are the chief [[factors]] in climatic fluctuation. The backbone of the Asiatic land mass reached a height of almost nine miles at the time of the maximum [[land]] [[emergence]]. Had there been much moisture in the [[air]] hovering over these highly elevated regions, enormous ice blankets would have formed; the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ice_age ice age] would have arrived long before it did. It was several hundred millions of years before so much [[land]] again appeared above [[water]].

57:8.23 750,000,000 years ago the first breaks in the continental [[land]] mass began as the great north-and-south cracking, which later admitted the [[ocean]] waters and prepared the way for the westward drift of the continents of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_America North] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_America South America], including [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greenland Greenland]. The long east-and-west cleavage separated [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Africa Africa] from [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Europe Europe] and severed the [[land]] masses of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australia Australia], the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_islands Pacific Islands], and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antarctica Antarctica] from the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asia Asiatic] continent.

57:8.23 750,000,000 years ago the first breaks in the continental [[land]] mass began as the great north-and-south cracking, which later admitted the [[ocean]] waters and prepared the way for the westward drift of the continents of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_America North] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_America South America], including [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greenland Greenland]. The long east-and-west cleavage separated [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Africa Africa] from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Europe Europe] and severed the [[land]] masses of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australia Australia], the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_islands Pacific Islands], and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antarctica Antarctica] from the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asia Asiatic] continent.

57:8.24 700,000,000 years ago [[Urantia]] was approaching the ripening of conditions suitable for the [[support]] of life. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pangea#Rifting_and_break-up continental land drift] continued; increasingly the [[ocean]] penetrated the [[land]] as long fingerlike seas providing those shallow [[waters]] and sheltered bays which are so suitable as a [[habitat]] for [[marine]] life.

57:8.24 700,000,000 years ago [[Urantia]] was approaching the ripening of conditions suitable for the [[support]] of life. The [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pangea#Rifting_and_break-up continental land drift] continued; increasingly the [[ocean]] penetrated the [[land]] as long fingerlike seas providing those shallow [[waters]] and sheltered bays which are so suitable as a [[habitat]] for [[marine]] life.

57:8.25 650,000,000 years ago [[witnessed]] the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=File:Pangea_animation_03.gif further separation] of the [[land]] masses and, in consequence, a further extension of the continental seas. And these [[waters]] were rapidly attaining that [[degree]] of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salinity saltiness] which was [[essential]] to [[Urantia]] life.

57:8.25 650,000,000 years ago [[witnessed]] the [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=File:Pangea_animation_03.gif further separation] of the [[land]] masses and, in consequence, a further extension of the continental seas. And these [[waters]] were rapidly attaining that [[degree]] of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salinity saltiness] which was [[essential]] to [[Urantia]] life.

57:8.26 It was these seas and their successors that laid down the life [[records]] of [[Urantia]], as subsequently [[discovered]] in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geologic_record well-preserved stone pages],[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_58#58:7._THE_GEOLOGIC_HISTORY_BOOK] volume upon volume, as [[era]] succeeded era and [[age]] grew upon age. These inland seas of olden times were truly the [[cradle]] of [[evolution]].

57:8.26 It was these seas and their successors that laid down the life [[records]] of [[Urantia]], as subsequently [[discovered]] in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geologic_record well-preserved stone pages],[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_58#58:7._THE_GEOLOGIC_HISTORY_BOOK] volume upon volume, as [[era]] succeeded era and [[age]] grew upon age. These inland seas of olden times were truly the [[cradle]] of [[evolution]].

57:8.27 [Presented by a [[Life Carrier]], a member of the original Urantia Corps and now a resident [[observer]].][http://books.google.com/books?id=WNplY_v5TP4C&pg=PA228&dq=garden+of+edia&hl=en&ei=tgxfTbbOGJGcgQeQqfnVDQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&sqi=2&ved=0CDsQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=urantia&f=false]

57:8.27 [Presented by a [[Life Carrier]], a member of the original Urantia Corps and now a resident [[observer]].][https://books.google.com/books?id=WNplY_v5TP4C&pg=PA228&dq=garden+of+edia&hl=en&ei=tgxfTbbOGJGcgQeQqfnVDQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&sqi=2&ved=0CDsQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=urantia&f=false]

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