The asteroid impact theory explains the mass extinction event that wiped out the dinosaurs 66 million years ago. Here's the compelling evidence:
- Chicxulub Crater: A massive crater, about 180 kilometers wide, was discovered in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. This crater dates back to the time of the extinction event.
- Iridium Layer: A thin layer of iridium, an element rare on Earth but common in asteroids, is found worldwide in rock layers dating from the extinction period.
- Shocked Quartz: High-pressure quartz crystals, formed by immense impact forces, are also found globally in rocks from this time.
- Tektites: These glassy droplets of molten rock, created by extreme heat during an impact, have been found around the Chicxulub crater and elsewhere.
Pro tip: The combination of these geological features provides strong evidence that a large asteroid impact was the primary cause of the dinosaur extinction.