What Caused the K/T Extinction 66 Million Years Ago?

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However, the majority of the scientific community believes that the K/T extinction was primarily caused by the combination of the asteroid impact in the Gulf of Mexico and the volcanic event in the Deccan Traps. In summary, both an asteroid impact and a volcanic event are thought to have caused the K/T extinction, with the timing of both events being extremely close. It has been suggested that another asteroid impact might have triggered the volcanic eruptions, but this is not widely accepted. The possibility of multiple asteroid impacts is unlikely, and the Shiva crater is not recognized as an impact crater by most of the scientific community. Additionally, iridium has been found in the K/T boundary layers at the Deccan Traps,
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alantheastronomer
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Both an asteroid impact in the Gulf of Mexico and an extensive volcanic event resulting in the formation of the Deccan Traps on the Indian subcontinent are thought to have caused the K/T extinction some 66 million years ago. The timing of both events are extremely close. It has also been suggested that another asteroid impact resulting in the "Shiva crater" might have triggered the volcanic eruptions. Is it possible that there might have been multiple asteroid impacts around the globe, and has iridium been found in the K/T boundary layers at the Deccan Traps?
 
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alantheastronomer said:
Is it possible that there might have been multiple asteroid impacts around the globe

Possible, but extremely unlikely. Asteroid impacts of that size just don't happen that often. Plus the Shiva crater isn't even recognized as an impact crater by most of the scientific community.
 
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Drakkith said:
Possible, but extremely unlikely. Asteroid impacts of that size just don't happen that often. Plus the Shiva crater isn't even recognized as an impact crater by most of the scientific community.

indeed

that guy and his colleagues seems to be the only ones hypothesizing the possibility

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1. What caused the K/T Extinction event?

The K/T Extinction event, also known as the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event, was caused by a combination of factors. The most widely accepted theory is that a large asteroid impact, known as the Chicxulub impact, occurred in the Yucatan Peninsula approximately 66 million years ago. This impact caused widespread environmental devastation, including tsunamis, earthquakes, and wildfires. Additionally, the impact released large amounts of dust and debris into the atmosphere, blocking out the sun and causing a global cooling effect.

2. Was the asteroid impact the only cause of the K/T Extinction?

No, the asteroid impact was not the sole cause of the K/T Extinction event. Other contributing factors include volcanic activity, climate change, and changes in sea levels. These events may have been occurring simultaneously or in the years leading up to the asteroid impact, making the extinction more severe.

3. How did the K/T Extinction affect different species?

The K/T Extinction event had a significant impact on many species, particularly those living on land and in the oceans. It is estimated that 75% of all plant and animal species became extinct, including dinosaurs, marine reptiles, and many invertebrates. Some species, such as mammals and birds, were able to survive and thrive in the aftermath of the extinction event.

4. Did any species survive the K/T Extinction?

Yes, some species did survive the K/T Extinction event. As mentioned before, mammals and birds were able to survive and adapt to the new environmental conditions. Additionally, some species of fish, plants, and invertebrates also survived. These surviving species were able to fill the ecological niches left by the extinct species and continue to evolve and diversify.

5. How has the K/T Extinction influenced the Earth's ecosystems today?

The K/T Extinction event has had a lasting impact on the Earth's ecosystems. The extinction of dominant species, such as dinosaurs, allowed for the rise of new species and the diversification of existing ones. This event also paved the way for mammals to become the dominant land animals. Additionally, the changes in climate and sea levels caused by the K/T Extinction have shaped the Earth's environment and continue to have an impact on species today.

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