Ep 6. Extinction

In season 3 episode 6 of How the Universe Works titled "Extinction", viewers are taken on a journey through time to explore the catastrophic events that have caused mass extinctions on Earth. The episode explores different theories surrounding mass extinctions and provides insight into the effects they had on the evolution of life on our planet.

Through stunning visual effects and insightful commentary from experts in the field, the episode guides viewers through various events that have led to mass extinctions throughout Earth's history. The episode starts by highlighting the Permian-Triassic extinction event, which happened over 250 million years ago and wiped out over 96% of all marine species and 70% of land species.

The episode then moves on to discuss the theories behind what caused the extinction event. One theory is that it was caused by a massive asteroid impact, while another theory suggests that it was due to dramatic volcanic eruptions that produced massive amounts of greenhouse gases. The episode examines each theory in detail and presents evidence supporting both sides of the argument.

Moving on from this event, the episode explores other mass extinctions throughout Earth's history, including the Cretaceous–Paleogene extinction event that wiped out the dinosaurs. The episode delves into the most widely accepted theory for this extinction event, which is the asteroid impact theory.

The episode also takes a look at the Little Ice Age, which occurred in the 16th to 19th centuries and caused widespread famine and disease. While not a traditional mass extinction event, it still had an enormous impact on human life and the planet.

Throughout the episode, viewers are presented with fascinating and often surprising facts about the different extinctions that occurred on Earth. For example, viewers learn that the Cretaceous–Paleogene extinction event happened 66 million years ago and that it wasn't until the 1980s that scientists realized that it was caused by an asteroid impact.

How the Universe Works season 3 episode 6 "Extinction" provides a deep dive into the catastrophic events that have reshaped life on Earth throughout history. The episode offers an intriguing look at different theories surrounding mass extinctions and provides a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of life on our planet. Through cutting-edge visuals and expert analysis, viewers are sure to come away from this episode with a newfound appreciation for the power of the universe and the impact it can have on our lives.