What are two pieces of evidence used to support the theory that dinosaurs became extinct as a result of volcanic eruptions about 65 million years ago?

Answer 1

The element iridium is fairly rare on the Earth, but seems to be somewhat more common in meteorites and in asteroids. Microscopic diamonds can be formed under extremely high temperatures and pressures, such as those that would be caused by a high-speed impact.

There is a layer of iridium dust and micro-diamonds around the world that seems to be about 65 million years old. Below that level, there are fossils of many very large dinosaur species; above that level, there wasn't much left alive. Luis Alvarez came up with the idea - widely ridiculed at the time - that the impact of an asteroid or comet may have killed off most large animals at about that time.

How large was the asteroid or comet? We can't be certain, but probably about 10 miles long.

Answer 2

1. There is an iridium layer that is 65.5 million years old and coincides with the extinction of the dinosaurs. Iridium is rare on Earth's surface, but is common in asteroids. However, it would have taken an immense asteroid to deliver enough iridium to Earth that it would be common in a layer that covered the entire world.

2. Satellite imaging revealed a round crater at the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. The crater was 112 miles across.

3. There is evidence of a megatsunami that would have been caused by the impact, because the asteroid crashed in the ocean. This evidence is 65.5 million year old marine sediments that were dragged far inland by the megastunami. Also, terrestrial rocks and debris that were carried out by the tsunami have been found far into what was then the sea.

Answer 3

Two pieces of evidence to support the theory of dinosaur extinction due to volcanic eruptions include the discovery of high levels of iridium in sedimentary layers, which is a common feature of volcanic eruptions, and the identification of large volcanic provinces like the Deccan Traps that formed around the time of the extinction event. These eruptions could have triggered environmental changes leading to the mass extinction of dinosaurs and other species.

Answer 4

Actually, the theory that is now commonly accepted is that the extinction occured as a result of an asteroid impact.

Answer 5

the flood did. all dinosaurs are, are reptiles that dont stop growing, like snakes and lizards

Answer 6

The dinosaurs died by a giant asteroid that hit Mexico.