Provides the first comprehensive introduction to the study of impact craters and structures. It will, thus, place emphasis of the variety of different characteristics associated to impact cratering as observed in the field and in the laboratory. Explanation of how to recognize impact structures is followed by a description of impact-diagnostic mineralogical and geochemical characteristics allowing confirmation of an impact structure. Also addresses the environmental and biological effects of impact events as well as possible associations with geological boundaries and provide extensive references and illustrations.

From the contents: Historical aspects of impact cratering.- General Characteristics of Impact Craters: Morphology and Geophysics.- Formation of Impact Craters.- Recognition of Impact Structures.- Shock Metamorphism.- Distal Ejecta.- Tektites and Impact Glasses.- Meteoritic Components.- Dating of Impact Craters.