66 million years ago, a massive asteroid collided with Earth, triggering a mass extinction event that wiped out the dinosaurs.
New research reveals the asteroid was a carbon-rich C-type, originating beyond Jupiter's orbit.
Scientists studied ruthenium isotopes in a global layer of sediment from the impact event to determine the asteroid's composition.
The study disproves theories that the extinction was caused by volcanic activity or a comet impact.
The asteroid likely originated in the asteroid belt, possibly after a collision, before heading towards Earth.
Understanding the asteroid's composition helps scientists learn more about the early solar system and the impact of such events on life.
Researchers plan to study other mass extinction events to see if C-type asteroid impacts are linked to more widespread extinctions.
Learning about these events helps us understand the potential threats to Earth and develop strategies for protection.