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Surface expression of the Chicxulub crater
K O Pope1, A C Ocampo, G L Kinsland
1Geo Eco Arc Research, La Canada, California 91011, USA.
Geology
|June 1, 1996
Summary
The buried Chicxulub impact crater influences Yucatan Peninsula geology and sedimentation. Its distinct surface features, including a prominent moat and concentric rings, reveal the crater
Area of Science:
- Geology
- Geophysics
- Sedimentology
Background:
- The Chicxulub impact event significantly altered Earth's geology.
- Understanding its surface expression is crucial for deciphering post-impact geological processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To confirm the surface expression of the buried Chicxulub impact crater.
- To analyze the influence of the crater on Cenozoic carbonate sedimentation.
- To map the concentric topographic features associated with the crater.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of geomorphic data.
- Analysis of soil data.
- Analysis of topographic data from the northern Yucatan Peninsula.
Main Results:
- The Chicxulub crater exhibits a distinct surface expression with concentric topographic features.
- A prominent moat (83 km radius) with sinkholes (Cenote ring) exists.
- Stepped topography with outer troughs and ridges indicate buried ring faults and crater rim modifications.
Conclusions:
- The Chicxulub crater's influence on sedimentation persisted throughout the Cenozoic.
- The topographic features confirm a principal impact basin diameter of approximately 180 km.
- Eroded crater rim features extend to approximately 260 km diameter.