Shock Processes in Geology

Abstract

The importance of shock in terrestrial geologic processes lies in its genetic association with meteorite impact and other cryptoexplosion structures. Shock waves are pressure waves that travel at supersonic velocities and, depending on their intensities, are capable of vaporizing, melting, mineralogically transforming, or strongly deforming rock materials. Shock pressures of 100's of kilobars produce unique effects which have been observed in nuclear explosion craters, laboratory shock experiments, meteorites and meteorite craters. Similar features are also found in many structures for which an impact origin has been proposed. Studies of the nature of shock waves, the mechanics of explosion and impact crater formation, and the features diagnostic of shock action apply directly to astrogeologic investigations of terrestrial and lunar craters and to meteorites.