Abstract
A theoretical study is made of the cratering process accompanying the impact of a 12,000-ton iron projectile on a semi-infinite half-space of soft rock at a velocity of 30 km/sec. The constituents and velocity approximate those involved in the formation of Meteor Crater, Arizona. The assumption is made that the process is hydrodynamic in nature, since the pressures generated so greatly exceed the strengths of the materials. At these high pressures, the compressibilities of the materials must be taken into account, with the result that shocks are generated. The motion is solved by numerical means, and graphs showing details of the motion are presented. The conclusion in this preliminary report is that the meteorite had a mass between 30,000 and 194,000 tons, the range being due to the uncertainty in the impact velocity.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
