description Canyon Diablo Overview
Fragments found around Arizona's Meteor Crater, also called Barringer Crater, are known collectively as Canyon Diablo. They belong to the IAB complex of iron meteorites and are associated with the impact that formed the crater roughly 50,000 years ago. Their iron-nickel metal can contain sulfides and other mineral inclusions, so these specimens preserve more than a simple mass of metallic iron. Canyon Diablo also has a place in the history of measuring geological time.
Lead isotope measurements involving its material were central to Clair Patterson's calculation in the 1950s that Earth and the Solar System are about 4.55 billion years old. It is therefore relevant to readers interested in both impact geology and the methods used to establish planetary ages. The meteorite's ancient formation and its much later collision with Earth represent two separate parts of its history.
help Canyon Diablo FAQ
How is Canyon Diablo connected to Arizona's Meteor Crater?
Canyon Diablo fragments are remnants of the iron asteroid that formed Barringer Meteor Crater near Winslow, Arizona. Most of the impactor was vaporized or dispersed, but metallic pieces were recovered around the crater.
How did Canyon Diablo help determine the age of Earth?
Clair Patterson analyzed lead isotopes from Canyon Diablo material during the 1950s. His work produced an Earth age of about 4.55 billion years, close to the value accepted today.
Why is it called Canyon Diablo if it came from Meteor Crater?
The meteorite took its name from nearby Canyon Diablo, following the geographic naming practices used for meteorites. The impact structure itself is also known as Barringer Crater after mining engineer Daniel Barringer.
What is Canyon Diablo meteorite made of?
Canyon Diablo is an iron meteorite containing abundant iron and nickel. Some specimens also contain minerals such as troilite and tiny diamonds produced or altered under extreme impact conditions.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
