How the Earth Was Made- How Asteroids Destroy Worlds

How Asteroids Destroy Worlds

Smaller asteroids have hit the Earth in the past, and they have caused massive destruction. The most notable example of this is the asteroid that caused the extinction of non-avian dinosaurs 65 million years ago. Scientists estimate that this object must have been between 11 to 12 km (7 to 8 miles) wide. Upon crashing into the planet, it created a huge dust plume that completely covered the globe, blocking out sunlight, and raised temperatures in the vicinity so high that it literally cooked anything living. If such a catastrophe occurred today, billions of people would definitely perish and so would a vast majority of our plant life. But there would be survivors.

In this video, you will take a look at how asteroids played a role in the formation of the Earth; a study of how the Barringer Meteor Crater in Arizona was formed, and why little evidence remains of the meteor itself that created it.

Directions:

1) The video and questions are provided in the quiz. 

2) To begin this activity, click "Take the Quiz" below.

3) There is no time limit on this assignment and therefore does not have to be completed in one sitting. Do not submit the assignment until you have completed it as there will be no re-opening of the assignment.

4) You only get one (1) attempt at this assignment.