Understanding What the Dinosaur Extinction Event Is
The dinosaur extinction event refers to the massive global die-off that ended the age of dinosaurs about 66 million years ago. It wiped out around 75% of Earth’s species.
What Caused the Extinction
The leading explanation is a huge asteroid that struck near modern-day Mexico. The impact released enormous energy, triggered fires, and sent dust into the atmosphere.
How the Impact Changed the Planet
The collision created a massive crater, darkened the sky, and cooled the climate. Plants died off, food chains collapsed, and many animals couldn’t survive the rapid changes.
Other Factors That Played a Role
Volcanic eruptions in India and long-term climate shifts may have added stress to ecosystems, making the extinction more severe.
Why Some Animals Survived
Creatures like birds, small mammals, crocodiles, and certain marine species survived because they could adapt, hide, or rely on different food sources.
What This Event Tells Us
The extinction event reshaped life on Earth, allowing mammals to rise and eventually leading to humans. It shows how sudden global changes can transform the planet.
The Simple Takeaway
The dinosaur extinction event was a catastrophic combination of asteroid impact and climate shifts that ended the dinosaurs’ reign and changed Earth forever.