The asteroid that led to dinosaur extinction was approximately 6 miles wide; this catastrophic event had an immeasurable effect on Earth, triggering events that COMPARE.EDU.VN dissects to provide a clearer understanding. By examining the asteroid’s size and the magnitude of the resulting mega-earthquake, mega-tsunamis, and other cascading effects, we can gain invaluable insights into the scale of this ancient disaster. Explore detailed analyses on cosmic impacts and geological events, and also discover discussions on extinction level events with us.
1. What Was The Size of the Dinosaur-Killing Asteroid?
The dinosaur-killing asteroid, also known as the Chicxulub impactor, is estimated to have been about 6 miles (10 kilometers) in diameter. Understanding the size of this space rock is critical to grasping the scale of devastation it wrought upon the Earth.
1.1. Dimensions of the Chicxulub Impactor
The Chicxulub impactor was a colossal object, roughly the size of a small city. For comparison, imagine a mountain range suddenly appearing in the sky. Its sheer size is one of the primary reasons it had such a profound impact on the planet.
1.2. Speed and Kinetic Energy
In addition to its size, the asteroid’s speed played a crucial role in the energy it released upon impact. Scientists believe it was traveling at approximately 12 miles per second (20 kilometers per second).
1.2.1. Calculating the Impact Energy
The kinetic energy released from this impact can be calculated using the formula KE = 1/2 m v^2, where m is mass and v is velocity. The resulting energy was equivalent to about 100 million megatons of TNT, an unimaginable level of destruction.
1.3. Comparison with Other Asteroids
To put this into perspective, consider other known asteroids. While many asteroids exist in our solar system, very few are of this magnitude. Most asteroids are much smaller, ranging from a few meters to a kilometer in diameter.
1.3.1. Notable Asteroids in Our Solar System
For example, Ceres, the largest object in the asteroid belt, is about 590 miles (950 kilometers) in diameter, but it is still significantly smaller than the Earth. Other notable asteroids include Vesta and Pallas, but none approach the destructive potential of the Chicxulub impactor.
1.4. Geological Evidence of the Impact
Geological evidence confirms the size and impact of the asteroid. The Chicxulub crater, located in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, is approximately 111 to 125 miles (180 to 200 kilometers) in diameter.
1.4.1. Spherule Deposits
One key piece of evidence is the presence of spherule deposits found in sedimentary layers worldwide. These small glass beads were formed when the asteroid impact vaporized rock, which then cooled and condensed into spherical particles that rained down across the globe.
1.4.2. Tektites and Microtektites
Tektites and microtektites are other forms of evidence. These are small, glassy objects formed from terrestrial debris that melted and solidified during the impact event. They have been found in various locations, providing further confirmation of the asteroid’s massive influence.
Artwork depicting Chicxulub impact, with dinosaur surrounded by asteroid flames
1.5. The Role of Asteroid Composition
The composition of the asteroid also influenced the scale of its impact. While the exact composition is still debated, it is believed to have been a stony or carbonaceous chondrite asteroid.
1.5.1. Impact on Vaporization and Ejection
This type of asteroid would have vaporized upon impact, contributing to the vast cloud of dust and debris that blocked sunlight and led to a global winter.
2. How Does The Asteroid Size Compare to Earth?
To fully appreciate the asteroid’s impact, it’s essential to compare its size to that of Earth. Although 6 miles might not seem significant on a planetary scale, its effects were catastrophic due to its immense energy and the vulnerable state of Earth’s ecosystem at the time.
2.1. Earth’s Diameter and Circumference
Earth has a diameter of approximately 7,918 miles (12,742 kilometers) and a circumference of about 24,901 miles (40,075 kilometers). In comparison, the 6-mile asteroid seems almost insignificant.
2.1.1. Comparing Sizes Visually
Imagine placing the asteroid on the Earth’s surface; it would be a small dot. However, the critical factor is not just its size but its density, velocity, and the resulting energy released upon impact.
2.2. Impact on Earth’s Crust and Mantle
The impact created a massive crater, disrupting the Earth’s crust and mantle. The force was so great that it caused widespread geological upheaval, triggering earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions.
2.2.1. Mega-Earthquakes and Tsunamis
Hermann Bermúdez, a researcher at Montclair State University, discovered evidence of a “mega-earthquake” that lasted weeks to months following the impact. This earthquake released about 50,000 times more energy than the 2004 Sumatra earthquake.
2.2.2. Evidence from Gorgonilla Island
Bermúdez’s fieldwork on Gorgonilla Island, Colombia, revealed layers of sediment with spherule deposits and soft-sediment deformation, indicating the magnitude of the shaking from the impact.
2.3. Global Effects on the Atmosphere
The impact also had profound effects on Earth’s atmosphere. The vaporized rock and debris created a massive dust cloud that blocked sunlight, leading to a global winter that lasted for years.
2.3.1. Impact Winter and Reduced Photosynthesis
This “impact winter” caused a significant drop in global temperatures, leading to widespread plant death and disrupting the food chain. Reduced photosynthesis further exacerbated the crisis, as plants could no longer convert sunlight into energy.
2.4. Comparison with Other Geological Events
To provide further context, it’s helpful to compare the asteroid impact with other major geological events in Earth’s history.
2.4.1. Volcanic Eruptions and Ice Ages
While volcanic eruptions and ice ages have also caused significant changes to Earth’s climate and ecosystems, the asteroid impact was unique due to its sudden and catastrophic nature.
2.4.2. The Permian-Triassic Extinction Event
The Permian-Triassic extinction event, often referred to as the “Great Dying,” was the most severe extinction event in Earth’s history, wiping out about 96% of marine species and 70% of terrestrial vertebrate species. While its causes are still debated, it is believed to have been triggered by massive volcanic activity.
2.5. Long-Term Effects on Earth’s Ecosystems
The long-term effects of the asteroid impact were devastating for Earth’s ecosystems. The extinction of the dinosaurs marked the end of the Mesozoic Era and paved the way for the rise of mammals in the Cenozoic Era.
2.5.1. Changes in Biodiversity
The event led to significant changes in biodiversity, with many species going extinct while others thrived in the new environmental conditions. This reshaped the course of evolution and set the stage for the world we know today.
3. What Were The Immediate Consequences of the Impact?
The immediate aftermath of the Chicxulub impact was a period of intense geological and environmental upheaval. Understanding these initial consequences helps to illustrate the sheer destructive power of the asteroid.
3.1. Formation of the Chicxulub Crater
The impact rapidly formed the Chicxulub crater, a massive depression in the Earth’s crust. The energy released instantly vaporized rock and created a shockwave that radiated outward.
3.1.1. Crater Dimensions and Structure
The crater is approximately 111 to 125 miles (180 to 200 kilometers) in diameter and several kilometers deep. Its structure includes a central peak ring, formed by the collapse and rebound of the Earth’s crust following the impact.
3.2. Mega-Tsunamis and Seismic Activity
The impact generated mega-tsunamis that surged across the Gulf of Mexico and beyond. These giant waves inundated coastal regions, causing widespread destruction.
3.2.1. Evidence of Tsunami Deposits
Evidence of these tsunamis can be found in sedimentary deposits along the coastlines of North and South America. These deposits contain layers of sand, gravel, and debris that were transported by the powerful waves.
3.2.2. Global Seismic Events
The impact also triggered seismic activity on a global scale. The mega-earthquake discovered by Bermúdez is a testament to the immense forces unleashed by the collision.
3.3. Ejection of Debris into the Atmosphere
One of the most significant immediate consequences was the ejection of vast amounts of debris into the atmosphere. This included vaporized rock, dust, and other materials that quickly spread around the globe.
3.3.1. Formation of Spherule Layers
As the ejected material cooled, it condensed into spherules, tektites, and microtektites, which then rained down on the Earth’s surface, forming distinct layers in the geological record.
3.4. Wildfires and Initial Thermal Effects
The intense heat generated by the impact ignited wildfires across large areas of the globe. These fires consumed forests and grasslands, releasing massive amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
3.4.1. Evidence of Soot and Ash Deposits
Evidence of these wildfires can be found in soot and ash deposits in sedimentary layers dating back to the time of the impact. These deposits provide further confirmation of the widespread devastation caused by the event.
3.5. Disruption of the Food Chain
The immediate disruption of the food chain was another critical consequence. The death of plants and other primary producers led to a collapse of ecosystems, impacting all levels of the food web.
3.5.1. Impact on Marine Life
Marine life was particularly affected, as the tsunamis and changes in ocean chemistry led to mass extinctions of plankton, shellfish, and other marine organisms.
4. What Were The Long-Term Environmental Effects?
Beyond the immediate destruction, the Chicxulub impact had long-lasting environmental effects that reshaped the Earth’s climate and ecosystems.
4.1. Impact Winter and Global Cooling
The most significant long-term effect was the “impact winter,” a period of prolonged global cooling caused by the dust and debris in the atmosphere blocking sunlight.
4.1.1. Duration and Severity of Cooling
Scientists estimate that the impact winter lasted for several years, with global temperatures dropping significantly. This cooling had a devastating impact on plant life, as many species could not survive the prolonged darkness and cold.
4.2. Acid Rain and Ocean Acidification
The impact also led to acid rain and ocean acidification, further stressing ecosystems. The release of sulfur dioxide and other gases into the atmosphere caused the formation of acid rain, which damaged plants and acidified soils.
4.2.1. Impact on Marine Ecosystems
Ocean acidification had a particularly severe impact on marine ecosystems, as it made it difficult for shellfish and other marine organisms to build their shells.
4.3. Changes in Atmospheric Composition
The impact caused significant changes in the composition of Earth’s atmosphere. The release of carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and other gases led to an increase in greenhouse gases, contributing to long-term climate change.
4.3.1. Effect on Greenhouse Gases
While the initial impact winter caused cooling, the long-term effect of increased greenhouse gases was a gradual warming of the planet.
4.4. Alteration of Global Ecosystems
The impact led to a fundamental alteration of global ecosystems. The extinction of the dinosaurs paved the way for the rise of mammals, which diversified and evolved to fill the ecological niches left vacant by the dinosaurs.
4.4.1. Rise of Mammals
The Cenozoic Era, which followed the extinction event, is often referred to as the “Age of Mammals,” as mammals became the dominant terrestrial vertebrates.
4.5. Long-Term Effects on Biodiversity
The long-term effects on biodiversity were profound. While many species went extinct, others thrived in the new environmental conditions. This led to a reshaping of the tree of life and the emergence of new species and ecosystems.
4.5.1. Changes in Plant Life
Plant life also underwent significant changes, with flowering plants becoming more dominant and diversifying to fill the ecological niches left vacant by the extinction of other plant species.
5. How Did The Asteroid Impact Affect Different Life Forms?
The Chicxulub impact had a differential impact on different life forms, with some groups being more vulnerable to extinction than others. Understanding these differences helps to explain the patterns of extinction and survival during this period.
5.1. Dinosaurs and Other Large Reptiles
The dinosaurs, which had been the dominant terrestrial vertebrates for over 150 million years, were among the hardest-hit groups. With the exception of birds (which are considered to be modern-day dinosaurs), all non-avian dinosaurs went extinct.
5.1.1. Vulnerability to Environmental Changes
Dinosaurs were particularly vulnerable to the environmental changes caused by the impact, as their large size and high metabolic requirements made them dependent on a stable food supply.
5.2. Marine Reptiles and Ammonites
Marine reptiles, such as mosasaurs and plesiosaurs, also went extinct during this period, as did ammonites, a group of shelled cephalopods that had been abundant in the oceans for millions of years.
5.2.1. Impact on Marine Food Webs
The extinction of these marine reptiles and ammonites had a significant impact on marine food webs, as they were important predators and prey species.
5.3. Mammals, Birds, and Small Reptiles
In contrast to the dinosaurs and marine reptiles, mammals, birds, and small reptiles fared relatively well during the extinction event. These groups were generally smaller, more adaptable, and less dependent on a stable food supply.
5.3.1. Adaptability and Survival Strategies
Mammals, in particular, were able to survive by retreating to burrows and feeding on insects, seeds, and other resources that were still available during the impact winter.
5.4. Insects and Other Invertebrates
Insects and other invertebrates also survived the extinction event, although some species were undoubtedly affected. These groups were generally more resilient due to their small size, rapid reproduction rates, and ability to feed on a wide range of resources.
5.4.1. Role in Ecosystem Recovery
Insects played a crucial role in the recovery of ecosystems following the impact, as they helped to pollinate plants, decompose organic matter, and provide food for other animals.
5.5. Plant Life
Plant life was significantly affected by the impact, although many plant species survived. The impact winter caused widespread plant death, but some species were able to survive as seeds or spores, which then germinated and grew once conditions improved.
5.5.1. Recovery and Diversification
Following the impact, plant life underwent a period of recovery and diversification, with flowering plants becoming more dominant and evolving to fill the ecological niches left vacant by the extinction of other plant species.
6. What Evidence Supports The Asteroid Impact Theory?
The asteroid impact theory is supported by a wealth of evidence from various scientific disciplines. This evidence includes geological, geochemical, and paleontological data.
6.1. The Chicxulub Crater
The discovery of the Chicxulub crater in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, is one of the strongest pieces of evidence supporting the asteroid impact theory. The crater’s size, structure, and location are consistent with the impact of a large asteroid.
6.1.1. Geophysical Surveys and Core Samples
Geophysical surveys and core samples from the crater have revealed evidence of shocked quartz, tektites, and other materials that are characteristic of impact events.
6.2. Iridium Anomaly
The iridium anomaly is another key piece of evidence. Iridium is a rare element in Earth’s crust but is relatively abundant in asteroids. A thin layer of iridium-rich sediment has been found at the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary in many locations around the world.
6.2.1. Global Distribution of Iridium
The global distribution of this iridium layer suggests that it was deposited by a widespread event, such as an asteroid impact.
6.3. Tektites and Microtektites
Tektites and microtektites are small, glassy objects formed from terrestrial debris that melted and solidified during the impact event. These objects have been found in various locations around the world, providing further evidence of the asteroid’s impact.
6.3.1. Chemical Composition and Origin
The chemical composition of tektites and microtektites matches that of rocks found in the Chicxulub crater, confirming their origin from the impact site.
6.4. Shocked Quartz
Shocked quartz is a form of quartz that has been subjected to intense pressure, such as that generated by an asteroid impact. The presence of shocked quartz in sedimentary layers at the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary is another line of evidence supporting the impact theory.
6.4.1. Microscopic Features of Shocked Quartz
Shocked quartz grains have distinctive microscopic features, such as planar deformation features (PDFs), that are indicative of high-pressure shock metamorphism.
6.5. Spherule Deposits
Spherule deposits are layers of small, spherical particles that were formed when the asteroid impact vaporized rock, which then cooled and condensed into spherical particles that rained down across the globe.
6.5.1. Composition and Distribution
The composition and distribution of spherule deposits provide further evidence of the asteroid’s impact and the scale of the event.
7. Could Such An Event Happen Again?
The possibility of another asteroid impact is a concern for scientists and the public alike. While the probability of a large asteroid striking Earth in the near future is relatively low, it is not zero.
7.1. Frequency of Asteroid Impacts
Asteroid impacts are a natural part of Earth’s history. Small asteroids strike Earth relatively frequently, but large, extinction-level events are much rarer.
7.1.1. Statistical Estimates of Impact Frequency
Scientists estimate that an asteroid of the size of the Chicxulub impactor strikes Earth approximately every 100 million years.
7.2. Near-Earth Objects (NEOs)
Near-Earth objects (NEOs) are asteroids and comets that orbit the Sun and can come close to Earth. NASA and other space agencies are actively tracking NEOs to assess the potential risk of an impact.
7.2.1. Monitoring and Tracking Programs
These monitoring and tracking programs use telescopes and radar to observe NEOs and calculate their orbits. The data collected is used to assess the probability of an impact and to develop strategies for mitigating the risk.
7.3. Potential Mitigation Strategies
If a large asteroid were found to be on a collision course with Earth, there are several potential mitigation strategies that could be employed.
7.3.1. Kinetic Impactor Technique
The kinetic impactor technique involves sending a spacecraft to collide with the asteroid, changing its trajectory.
7.3.2. Nuclear Deflection
Nuclear deflection involves detonating a nuclear device near the asteroid, causing it to change course. However, this strategy is controversial due to the potential for radioactive contamination.
7.4. International Cooperation
Addressing the threat of asteroid impacts requires international cooperation. Space agencies and governments around the world need to work together to monitor NEOs, develop mitigation strategies, and coordinate response efforts in the event of an impact.
7.4.1. Role of Space Agencies
Space agencies such as NASA, ESA, and JAXA play a crucial role in monitoring NEOs and developing mitigation strategies.
7.5. Public Awareness and Education
Public awareness and education are also important. By understanding the risks and potential consequences of asteroid impacts, the public can support efforts to monitor NEOs and develop mitigation strategies.
7.5.1. Promoting Scientific Literacy
Promoting scientific literacy and critical thinking can help the public to make informed decisions about this important issue.
8. How Can We Learn More About Asteroid Impacts?
Learning more about asteroid impacts requires ongoing research and exploration. By studying past impacts and monitoring NEOs, scientists can gain a better understanding of the risks and potential consequences of these events.
8.1. Geological Research
Geological research is essential for understanding past asteroid impacts. By studying impact craters, sedimentary layers, and other geological features, scientists can reconstruct the events that occurred during these impacts.
8.1.1. Fieldwork and Laboratory Analysis
Fieldwork and laboratory analysis are important components of geological research. Scientists collect samples from impact sites and analyze them using a variety of techniques to determine their composition, age, and origin.
8.2. Space Missions
Space missions to asteroids and comets provide valuable data about these objects. By studying their composition, structure, and orbits, scientists can gain a better understanding of their origin and evolution.
8.2.1. OSIRIS-REx and Hayabusa2 Missions
Missions such as OSIRIS-REx and Hayabusa2 have returned samples of asteroids to Earth, allowing scientists to study them in detail.
8.3. Computer Modeling
Computer modeling is a powerful tool for simulating asteroid impacts and their effects. By using computer models, scientists can explore different impact scenarios and assess the potential consequences of these events.
8.3.1. Simulating Impact Scenarios
These simulations can help to identify the most vulnerable regions of Earth and to develop strategies for mitigating the risk of an impact.
8.4. International Collaborations
International collaborations are essential for advancing our understanding of asteroid impacts. By sharing data, resources, and expertise, scientists from around the world can work together to address this important issue.
8.4.1. Sharing Data and Resources
These collaborations can help to accelerate the pace of research and to develop more effective strategies for monitoring NEOs and mitigating the risk of an impact.
8.5. Public Education and Outreach
Public education and outreach are also important for promoting scientific literacy and raising awareness about the risks and potential consequences of asteroid impacts.
8.5.1. Engaging the Public
By engaging the public in the scientific process, we can foster a greater appreciation for science and technology and encourage support for research and exploration.
9. What Role Did The Chicxulub Impact Play in The Evolution of Life?
The Chicxulub impact played a pivotal role in the evolution of life on Earth. By causing a mass extinction, it reshaped ecosystems and paved the way for the rise of new species.
9.1. Extinction of the Dinosaurs
The extinction of the dinosaurs was one of the most significant consequences of the Chicxulub impact. The dinosaurs had been the dominant terrestrial vertebrates for over 150 million years, but the impact led to their demise, with the exception of birds.
9.1.1. Paving the Way for Mammals
The extinction of the dinosaurs paved the way for the rise of mammals, which diversified and evolved to fill the ecological niches left vacant by the dinosaurs.
9.2. Diversification of Mammals
Following the extinction of the dinosaurs, mammals underwent a period of rapid diversification. They evolved into a wide range of forms, from small, insectivorous creatures to large, herbivorous grazers.
9.2.1. Evolution of Primates
The evolution of primates, including humans, is a direct consequence of the diversification of mammals following the Chicxulub impact.
9.3. Changes in Plant Life
Plant life also underwent significant changes following the impact. Flowering plants became more dominant and diversified to fill the ecological niches left vacant by the extinction of other plant species.
9.3.1. Coevolution of Plants and Animals
The coevolution of plants and animals led to the development of new ecosystems and food webs, further shaping the evolution of life on Earth.
9.4. Impact on Marine Ecosystems
The impact also had a significant impact on marine ecosystems. The extinction of marine reptiles and ammonites led to changes in marine food webs, with new species evolving to fill the vacant niches.
9.4.1. Recovery and Diversification
Marine ecosystems eventually recovered and diversified, but the impact left a lasting imprint on the evolution of marine life.
9.5. Long-Term Effects on Biodiversity
The long-term effects on biodiversity were profound. While the impact caused a mass extinction, it also created new opportunities for the evolution of life. The world we know today is a direct result of the Chicxulub impact and the subsequent recovery and diversification of life on Earth.
9.5.1. Shaping the Tree of Life
The impact reshaped the tree of life, leading to the emergence of new species, ecosystems, and evolutionary pathways.
10. What Lessons Can We Learn From The Chicxulub Impact?
The Chicxulub impact provides valuable lessons about the interconnectedness of Earth’s systems and the potential consequences of catastrophic events.
10.1. Understanding Earth’s Vulnerability
The impact highlights Earth’s vulnerability to external forces. While Earth is a resilient planet, it is not immune to catastrophic events such as asteroid impacts.
10.1.1. Importance of Monitoring and Mitigation
Understanding Earth’s vulnerability underscores the importance of monitoring NEOs and developing mitigation strategies to reduce the risk of future impacts.
10.2. Interconnectedness of Ecosystems
The impact demonstrates the interconnectedness of ecosystems. The extinction of the dinosaurs had cascading effects throughout the food web, impacting plant life, marine ecosystems, and other species.
10.2.1. Importance of Biodiversity
This interconnectedness highlights the importance of biodiversity and the need to protect ecosystems from human activities that could lead to extinctions.
10.3. Long-Term Consequences of Environmental Change
The impact illustrates the long-term consequences of environmental change. The impact winter, acid rain, and ocean acidification had lasting effects on Earth’s climate and ecosystems.
10.3.1. Addressing Climate Change
This underscores the importance of addressing climate change and other environmental issues to prevent future catastrophic events.
10.4. Resilience of Life
The impact also demonstrates the resilience of life. Despite the mass extinction, life on Earth eventually recovered and diversified.
10.4.1. Adaptive Capacity
This resilience highlights the adaptive capacity of life and the potential for ecosystems to recover from even the most devastating events.
10.5. Importance of Scientific Research
The Chicxulub impact highlights the importance of scientific research for understanding Earth’s history and future. By studying past impacts and monitoring NEOs, scientists can provide valuable insights into the risks and potential consequences of these events.
10.5.1. Supporting Scientific Exploration
This underscores the importance of supporting scientific research and exploration to advance our understanding of Earth and the universe.
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FAQ: Understanding the Chicxulub Asteroid Impact
1. How big was the asteroid that killed the dinosaurs compared to Earth?
The asteroid was approximately 6 miles (10 kilometers) in diameter, relatively small compared to Earth’s 7,918-mile diameter, yet it caused catastrophic global changes.
2. What evidence supports the asteroid impact theory?
Key evidence includes the Chicxulub crater, an iridium anomaly in geological layers, tektites, shocked quartz, and spherule deposits found worldwide.
3. How much energy did the asteroid release upon impact?
The impact released energy equivalent to about 100 million megatons of TNT, causing widespread devastation.
4. What immediate consequences followed the Chicxulub impact?
Immediate consequences included the formation of the Chicxulub crater, mega-tsunamis, global seismic activity, ejection of debris into the atmosphere, and widespread wildfires.
5. What was the impact winter and how did it affect Earth?
The impact winter was a period of prolonged global cooling caused by atmospheric dust blocking sunlight, leading to widespread plant death and disruption of the food chain.
6. How did the Chicxulub impact affect marine life?
The impact led to ocean acidification and mass extinctions of plankton, shellfish, and other marine organisms, significantly disrupting marine food webs.
7. Which groups of organisms were most affected by the extinction event?
Dinosaurs, marine reptiles, and ammonites were among the hardest-hit groups, while mammals, birds, and small reptiles fared relatively well.
8. Could an asteroid impact like the Chicxulub event happen again?
Yes, but large, extinction-level events are rare. Scientists estimate such an impact occurs approximately every 100 million years.
9. What are some potential mitigation strategies for asteroid impacts?
Mitigation strategies include the kinetic impactor technique and nuclear deflection, requiring international cooperation for effective implementation.
10. How did the Chicxulub impact influence the evolution of life on Earth?
The impact paved the way for the rise of mammals by leading to the extinction of dinosaurs, resulting in significant changes in ecosystems and biodiversity.
