Horizon Season 2004 Episode 14 What Really Killed the Dinosaurs?

What Really Killed the Dinosaurs? is the 14th episode of the 2004 season of the acclaimed science program Horizon. The episode presents an in-depth look at the various theories put forward over the years regarding the extinction of the dinosaurs.

The episode begins by highlighting the fact that the extinction of the dinosaurs 65 million years ago is one of the most significant events in the history of life on Earth. It then goes on to list some of the popular theories put forward to explain what killed the dinosaurs. These include a meteor impact, massive volcanic activity, and even an outbreak of disease.

To examine these theories in more detail, the episode visits various locations across the globe where experts have been conducting research. One such location is the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, where researchers have found evidence of a massive impact crater. This has led many to believe that a meteor impact was responsible for the extinction of the dinosaurs.

The episode then moves on to consider the theory of massive volcanic activity as a possible cause of the extinction. To explore this idea, the Horizon team visits an area of India known as the Deccan Traps. This region is comprised of layers of solidified lava that has been dated back to the time of the dinosaurs. Some scientists believe that a massive volcanic eruption in this region may have released enough gases into the atmosphere to cause a catastrophic climate change.

The possibility of a disease outbreak as the cause of extinction is also considered in the episode. Using cutting-edge technology, the program looks at what kinds of diseases could have affected the dinosaurs and what their effects may have been.

Additionally, the program considers other less popular theories, such as radiation from space and even a change in Earth's magnetic field as possible causes of the extinction.

Throughout the episode, the Horizon team presents the arguments for and against each of these theories. They weigh up the evidence from each location they visit and present groundbreaking research that brings us closer to understanding what really led to the loss of the dinosaurs.

In summary, the Horizon episode What Really Killed the Dinosaurs? delves into the mystery of the extinction of the dinosaurs. Through interviews with scientists and visits to key locations across the globe, the program examines the various theories put forward to explain this event and presents compelling evidence that sheds light on one of the most significant events in the history of life on Earth.