What effect do asteroid impacts have on Earth's climate? A cooling effect, followed by a brief warming effect, and then a long-term warming effect A warming effect, followed by a brief cooling effect, and then a long-term cooling effect A brief warming effect, followed by a cooling effect, and then a long-term warming effect A brief cooling effect, followed by a warming effect, and then a long-term cooling effect

Asteroid impacts can unleash colossal amounts of energy, often equivalent to millions of atomic bombs. Initially, the debris and soot thrown into the atmosphere block sunlight, leading to a dramatic cooling effect known as "impact winter." This can last for several months to years, drastically affecting ecosystems and leading to extinctions, as evidenced by the dinosaur demise some 66 million years ago. In the aftermath of the cooling, volcanic activity and natural greenhouse gases may lead to a warming period as the planet starts to rebound. This can create a lush environment ideal for new life forms to flourish, showcasing nature's remarkable ability to adapt and thrive after catastrophic events. It's quite the rollercoaster ride for Earth's climate!