Throughout Earth’s history, there have been significant extinctions, with one of the most notable events being the demise of the dinosaurs approximately 65 million years ago. During this period, around seventy percent of all species on Earth perished. While dinosaurs were already experiencing a decline, it`s speculated they could have rebounded if not for a catastrophic event. The prevailing theory attributes this extinction to an asteroid impact.

The leading hypothesis proposes that a colossal asteroid, roughly 10 kilometers in diameter, collided with Earth. It`s theorized that the impact obliterated everything within a radius of about 500 kilometers from the point of impact. Additionally, the collision would have triggered widespread fires, heightened volcanic activity, and propelled immense clouds of dust, gases, and water vapor into the atmosphere. Consequently, there would have been prolonged periods of darkness, decreased temperatures, and acid rain. Evidence supporting this theory includes the presence of a massive crater off the northwest coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. This crater, dating back 65 million years, is believed to be the result of a significant asteroid impact.

What significant event occurred on Earth approximately 65 million years ago? What is the estimated size of the asteroid thought to have caused this event? What catastrophic consequences are believed to have resulted from this event? What evidence supports the theory of an asteroid impact?