Chicxulub Crater

The Chicxulub crater is a large impact crater located on the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. It is widely believed to be the site of the impact that contributed to the mass extinction event that occurred around 66 million years ago, marking the end of the Cretaceous period and the extinction of the dinosaurs.

Key Features

• Location: Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico.
• Diameter: Approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles).
• Age: About 66 million years old.
• Cause: It was formed by the impact of a large asteroid or comet, which released enormous energy and caused widespread fires, tsunamis, and a “nuclear winter” effect leading to the extinction of numerous species.

Geological Significance

The Chicxulub impact is a key event in Earth’s history, and its study has provided valuable insights into the dynamics of impact events and their long-term environmental effects. The crater is located in the Chicxulub area, near the town of the same name, and it has been the focus of numerous scientific investigations, including drilling and seismic studies.

Impact on Life

The impact is associated with the mass extinction that wiped out about 75% of the Earth’s species, including the non-avian dinosaurs. The aftermath of the impact triggered drastic climate changes, including a drop in temperatures and reduced sunlight, leading to the collapse of ecosystems.

Fun Fact

The name “Chicxulub” comes from the Mayan language, where it is believed to mean “the devil’s tail,” referring to the shape of the crater. This is one of the most famous impact craters in the world due to its connection with the extinction of the dinosaurs.

Learn more about the Chicxulub Crater on Wikipedia.