Numerical Modeling of an Asteroid Impact on Earth: Matching Field Observations at the Chicxulub Crater Using the Distinct Element Method (DEM)

In recent years, an international consortium of research organizations conducted investigations at the Chicxulub Crater in Yucatan, Mexico, to better understand crater’s formation mechanisms and effects produced by impact asteroid that is hypothesized have caused one major life extinctions on Earth. This study aims reproduce asteroid’s mechanics matching computer simulations obtained with use distinct element method (DEM) against latest topographic data observed across crater footprint. A 2D model was formulated using ITASCA’s PFC2D software The ground conditions prior were replicated based available geological geophysical field information. Also, proposed DEM configuration designed a far-field effect ascertain energy dissipation model’s boundaries. Impact defined previous investigations. parametric analysis including angle velocity assess their influence process. Results included final topography stratigraphy, stress profiles, contact force chains, fields. Numerical showed both inclination play role process, provides interesting insights into formation.