Asteroid Bennu Could Spell Catastrophe for Earth in 2182, Research Reveals

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Scientists warn that the asteroid Bennu, classified as a near-Earth object with a one-in-2,700 chance of colliding with our planet in September 2182, could lead to severe environmental consequences. A recent study published in the journal Science Advances suggests that an impact from Bennu, measuring approximately 500 meters in diameter, would inject between 100-400 million tons of dust into the atmosphere, triggering a global climate disruption and an "impact winter" characterized by reduced sunlight and temperature drops.

Lead author Lan Dai from the IBS Center for Climate Physics in South Korea explained that such an asteroid strike could lead to a 7-degree Fahrenheit drop in global temperatures, a 15% decline in average rainfall, and a devastating 20-30% reduction in plant photosynthesis. In the worst-case scenario, significant ozone depletion and long-term food insecurity could follow the impact.

Historically, impacts from large asteroids have caused mass extinctions, including the one that contributed to the demise of the dinosaurs. Researchers highlight that while the likelihood of a Bennu-sized impact is minimal, its potential consequences warrant serious consideration.

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