Isotopic evidence for the Cretaceous-Tertiary impactor and its type

Science. 1998 Oct 30;282(5390):927-9. doi: 10.1126/science.282.5390.927.

Abstract

High-precision mass spectrometric analysis of chromium in sediment samples from the Cretaceous-Tertiary (K-T) boundary coincident with the extinction of numerous organisms on Earth confirms the cosmic origin of the K-T phenomenon. The isotopic composition of chromium in K-T boundary samples from Stevns Klint, Denmark, and Caravaca, Spain, is different from that of Earth and indicates its extraterrestrial source. The chromium isotopic signature is consistent with a carbonaceous chondrite-type impactor. The observed differences in the chromium isotopic composition among various meteorite classes can serve as a diagnostic tool for deciphering the nature of impactors that have collided with Earth during its history.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Chromium / analysis
  • Chromium Isotopes / analysis*
  • Denmark
  • Earth, Planet*
  • Geologic Sediments / chemistry*
  • Mass Spectrometry
  • Meteoroids*
  • Spain

Substances

  • Chromium Isotopes
  • Chromium