Tolkien, to my understanding, did intend to base, for the most part, the physical properties of Arda on the corresponding natural laws of our world, as was known to him then, though he did it with a certain Elvish craft as he designed it.
From "Interview with Tolkien";
Niekas, 1967; vol. 18; p. 37-43
In a response to the interviewer, Henry Resnick:
Quote:
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If you really want to know what Middle-earth is based on, it's my wonder and delight in the Earth as it is, particularly the natural earth.
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[ January 09, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]