If the rotation of the Earth were to suddenly stop altogether, the consequences would be significant but not as dramatic as objects falling off into space. Here's what would likely happen:
Drastic Changes in the Surface: Objects on the Earth's surface, including buildings, trees, and mountains, would retain their inertia and continue moving eastward at the speed of the Earth's rotation at their respective latitudes. This sudden change in motion could result in catastrophic events such as strong winds, tsunamis, and earthquakes as the Earth's crust adjusts to the new stationary state.
Redistribution of Water: The oceans would experience a redistribution of water due to the loss of the centrifugal force caused by rotation. Water would migrate towards the poles, leading to a rise in sea levels in those areas and a decrease near the equator. Coastal regions would be significantly impacted by these changes.
Disrupted Atmosphere: The Earth's atmosphere would also be affected. The rotation of the Earth generates the Coriolis effect, which influences wind patterns and atmospheric circulation. Without rotation, these patterns would be disrupted, potentially leading to chaotic and turbulent atmospheric conditions.
Drastic Climate Changes: The redistribution of water and alteration of atmospheric circulation patterns would cause significant changes in climate. Regions that were previously moderate might experience extreme temperature variations, while current polar regions could become more temperate. Precipitation patterns and weather systems would also be greatly disrupted.
Stability of Celestial Orbits: The Earth's rotation has an effect on the stability of its orbit around the Sun and the Moon's orbit around the Earth. The sudden stop in rotation could disturb the delicate balance of gravitational forces and affect the stability of these orbits, potentially leading to long-term changes in the Earth-Moon-Sun system.
While objects on the Earth's surface would not simply fall off into space due to inertia, the sudden cessation of rotation would cause widespread and significant disruptions to the planet's systems and dynamics. It's important to note that such an event is highly unlikely and not consistent with the known behavior of the Earth's rotation.