The Antipodal Bullet Theory: Metallic Core Penetration as a Unified Mechanism for Mass Extinctions and Large Igneous Provinces

This work proposes the Antipodal Bullet Theory (ABT), a novel hypothesis explaining the causal mechanism linking major cosmic impacts with Large Igneous Provinces (LIPs) and mass extinctions. We propose that sufficiently massive impactors with metallic cores can penetrate entirely through Earth's mantle, emerging at or near the antipodal point and triggering massive volcanism through multiple physical mechanisms. This hypothesis provides a unified explanation for the observed spatial, temporal, and geochemical correlations between impact craters, LIPs, and extinction events, using only known physics without requiring hypothetical constructs. The theory makes several falsifiable predictions, including specific geochemical signatures (platinum group element ratios, osmium isotopes), structural evidence in ancient LIPs, and quantifiable relationships between impactor mass, core composition, and LIP magnitude. We propose concrete experimental methods, including deep drilling programs, high-resolution seismic imaging, and computational modeling, with estimated budgets ($35.65M) and timelines (5-7 years). If confirmed, ABT would fundamentally reshape our understanding of planetary catastrophism, provide critical constraints for impact hazard assessment, and offer new insights into the long-term evolution of terrestrial planets. The theory's strength lies in its simplicity: it requires no new physics, relying only on the unusual properties of metallic iron (extreme density, high melting point, superior thermal conductivity) to enable a counterintuitive but physically consistent phenomenon. As an independent researcher, I welcome collaboration with members of the scientific community who find value in this work.Researchers registered as arXiv endorsers in Geophysics (physics.geo-ph), Astrophysics (astro-ph.EP), or related fields who are willing to support submission of this paper to arXiv are invited to contactthe author at [email protected]. https://orcid.org/0009-0006-1089-9023