Final answer:
If the Moon's revolution around Earth took twice as long, the lunar phases and tidal patterns would extend over longer periods, affecting various organisms and human activities. Changes in the moon’s gravitational pull could also modify how quickly the Moon is receding from Earth.
Step-by-step explanation:
If the Moon's revolution around Earth took twice as long as it does now, which is currently about 28 days, various astronomical and terrestrial consequences would follow.
Firstly, the phases of the Moon would occur over a longer period, changing the way we see the Moon from Earth. Instead of a full cycle from new moon to new moon taking about 29.5 days (solar month), it would take roughly 59 days. This change would impact cultural and religious practices that are based on the lunar calendar.
Secondly, tidal patterns on Earth, which are primarily governed by the gravitational pull of the Moon, would alter significantly. Slower revolutions would lead to more extended periods between high and low tides, potentially affecting marine life and human activities such as fishing and coastal navigation.
Additionally, orbital dynamics, such as the rate at which the Moon is currently moving away from Earth, would be affected. Currently, the Moon is receding from Earth by 3.8 centimeters per year, potentially altering this rate and the eventual equilibrium that is predicted to form billions of years from now.