Which microscopic mineral grains were crucial for definitively dating the impact using uranium-lead techniques?
Answer
Zircon
Scientists focused on microscopic mineral grains called zircon found within the impact breccia; these crystals locked in the thermal history of the impact melt.
Related Questions
What is the approximate age assigned to the Yarrabubba impact event?In which region of the world is the Yarrabubba impact structure located?Which microscopic mineral grains were crucial for definitively dating the impact using uranium-lead techniques?What was the structure previously accepted as the oldest confirmed impact feature on Earth?What is the estimated original diameter of the Yarrabubba crater based on analysis of shock features?The Yarrabubba impact occurred during which ancient geological era?Which research institutions primarily led the team that discovered and dated the Yarrabubba structure?What is the estimated explosive energy equivalent of the Yarrabubba impactor strike?Why did the geological signatures of the Yarrabubba impact survive billions of years of erosion?How has the methodology for identifying the oldest impact structures shifted based on the Yarrabubba research?