What Happens if an Asteroid Hits the Earth?

🌍Asteroids have had a significant impact on shaping the Earth's history, including the formation of the Moon, the arrival of water, and mass extinctions.

💥Asteroids hitting the Earth are not a thing of the past. Earth is bombarded with tons of dust and sand-sized particles every day, and car-sized rocks approach our planet once a year.

🚀The chances of a large asteroid hitting Earth are slim. NASA has tracked 90% of near-Earth asteroids larger than half a mile and none of them pose a significant threat.

🔥If an asteroid the size of a football field hits the Earth, it can cause massive damage, including destruction in a three-kilometer radius and the possibility of radioactive contamination.

🌎Asteroids carry minerals and water, which scientists believe may have played a role in kick-starting life on Earth.

Are asteroids hitting the Earth a real threat?

—Yes, asteroids hitting the Earth are not just limited to science fiction. While our atmosphere burns up smaller asteroids, larger ones can cause devastating impacts.

How often do asteroids hit the Earth?

—Earth is bombarded with more than 100 tons of dust and sand-sized particles every day. Car-sized rocks approach our planet about once a year.

What are the consequences if an asteroid hits the Earth?

—The consequences include shockwaves, wildfires, and a drop in temperature, leading to the extinction of many species. If the asteroid is large enough, it can cause destruction in a three-kilometer radius and the possibility of radioactive contamination.

Is there a chance of a giant asteroid hitting Earth and causing mass extinction like the dinosaurs?

—The chances of a giant asteroid hitting Earth and causing mass extinction like the dinosaurs are slim. NASA has tracked 90% of near-Earth asteroids larger than half a mile, and none of them pose a significant threat.

Do asteroids carry any useful elements?

—Yes, asteroids carry minerals and water. Scientists believe these vital elements may have played a role in kick-starting life on Earth.

00:54Asteroids have had a significant impact on shaping the Earth's history, including the formation of the Moon, the arrival of water, and mass extinctions.

01:56Earth is bombarded with more than 100 tons of dust and sand-sized particles every day. Car-sized rocks approach our planet about once a year.

02:33NASA has tracked 90% of near-Earth asteroids larger than half a mile, and none of them pose a significant threat.

03:45If an asteroid the size of a football field hits the Earth, it can cause massive damage, including destruction in a three-kilometer radius and the possibility of radioactive contamination.

05:53Asteroids carry minerals and water, which scientists believe may have played a role in kick-starting life on Earth.