Meteorite Impact
A meteorite impact occurs when a meteoroid, a small rock or particle from space, collides with the Earth's surface. These impacts can create craters, which vary in size depending on the meteoroid's mass and speed. The energy released during the impact can cause significant damage to the surrounding area, including shockwaves, fires, and tsunamis if the impact occurs in an ocean.
Throughout history, large meteorite impacts have played a role in shaping the Earth's geology and climate. One of the most famous examples is the Chicxulub Crater in Mexico, which is linked to the mass extinction event that wiped out the dinosaurs around 66 million years ago. Understanding meteorite impacts helps scientists learn about Earth's history and the potential risks from space.