Microdiamonds hint meteor crater beneath a vineyard!
Recommended for Preparatory Grades
The presence of “microdiamonds” hints at the presence of an ancient meteor crater beneath the vineyard. The crater is situated in the south of France.
What are microdiamonds?
Microdiamonds are diamonds whose biggest size is less than 0.85 mm. They are too small to be cut into gemstones.
In 1950, the structure was initially suspected of being a crater caused by a meteorite impact. Because the crater had no raised rim, a 1964 investigation threw doubt on its identity. Researchers also observed no magnetic field disturbances at impact sites.
Key facts!
- A more recent investigation of the location has shown that there is, in fact, a magnetic oddity located within the crater itself.
- In addition to this, shards of rock located in and around the depression exhibit indicators of having been subjected to a forceful impact.
- The depth of the crater is approximately 98 feet.
- It has a bottom that is lined with neat grapevines and sides that are covered with scrubby plants.
- During the first trip, the researchers collected rock samples for microanalysis.
- On the second trip, they examined the magnetic field and other aspects of the crater.
- The researchers discovered several signs of an impact, such as dark-coloured veins that might have been caused by a shock.
- As well as a rock which is deformed and shows signs of having melted and resolidified into a kind of cement.
- These veins and the rock both show signs of having been affected by an impact.
- The researchers also found the soil to be rich in nickel and iron and comparable to those seen in other impact craters.
- In the final step of their investigation, the scientists carried out a magnetic survey of the crater.
- They discovered that the magnetic field weakens as one gets closer to the crater’s epicentre.
Curious Times is a leading newspaper and website for kids. We publish daily global news aligned to your learning levels (also as per NEP 2020): Foundational, Preparatory (Primary), Middle and Senior. So, check out the News tab for this. We bring kids’ favourite Curious Times Weekly newspaper every weekend with top news, feature stories and kids’ contributions. Check out daily JokesPoke, Tongue Twisters, Word of the Day and Quote of the Day, kids need it all the time.
ME – My Expressions at Curious Times is your place to get your work published, building your quality digital footprint. And it is a good way to share your talent and skills with your friends, family, school, teachers and the world. Thus, as you will step into higher educational institutes your published content will showcase your strength.
Events, Quizzes and Competitions bring students from over 5,000 schools globally to participate in the 21st-Century themes. Here schools and students win certificates, prizes and recognition through these global events.
Sign-up for your school for FREE!
Communicate with us: WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
0 (Please login to give a Curious Clap to your friend.)