The average distance between Earth and its neighboring planet, Mars, can vary significantly due to the elliptical shape of their orbits around the Sun. On average, the distance between Earth and Mars is approximately 225 million kilometers (140 million miles).
While the orbits of Earth and Mars intersect at certain points, the likelihood of a collision between the two planets is incredibly low. The orbits of planets in our solar system are well-established and stable, governed by the laws of gravity and celestial mechanics. The planets follow predictable paths around the Sun, and their orbits are carefully balanced to avoid collisions.
The chances of an unlikely occurrence that would force Earth and Mars together are extremely remote. To significantly alter the orbits of two planets, a substantial external force or gravitational disturbance would be required. However, such an event is highly improbable given the vast distances and the gravitational influence of other massive bodies in the solar system.
That being said, it's important to note that the positions and motions of celestial bodies can be influenced over extremely long timescales by various factors, such as gravitational interactions with other planets, asteroids, or even passing stars. However, the possibility of Earth and Mars colliding or being forced together by these interactions is considered highly unlikely within the foreseeable future.