O paradoxo do sol jovem e a perda de massa estelar

Abstract

This study addresses the Faint Young Sun Paradox, a scientific question that arises from the apparent conflict between stellar evolution models and the geological conditions of early Earth. According to the Standard Model, the Sun, 4 billion years ago, exhibited a luminosity approximately 30% lower than its current value, which should have resulted in a globally frozen young Earth. However, geological records show that Earth maintained liquid water on its surface, an essential condition for the emergence of life. One hypothesis proposed to resolve this paradox suggests that the young Sun experienced more intense mass loss in the past, through solar winds, which would have provided the necessary warming to sustain liquid water. This study compiles and analyzes the available results in the literature, comparing different methods for measuring stellar mass-loss rates and their implications. The results obtained indicate how stellar mass loss may have influenced the Sun's luminosity and, consequently, Earth's climate during the era when life first emerged. Furthermore, the study explores the implications of these stellar winds for habitability, providing insights into the conditions necessary for planets around other stars to maintain atmospheres and climates suitable for the development of life.