If we consider an ET object (meteor, comet) and we assume a normal incoming velocity, what ground effects evidence (distance from epicenter versus destruction) should we look for, i.e. differential rate of destruction, to back track and determine type of impactor? Putting it another way, at distance x a tree is vaporized, at distance y a tree is knocked down, at distance z a tree is singed, how can these pieces of evidence be quantified to make an estimate of what hit?

edit to add: in the case of airburst.

edit to add #2: at Meteor crater the sand was changed by the blast from yellow to white powder sand. Energy required?

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(By the way, I hate it that so many papers in the areas of planetary science and geology are not easily available to the dreaded "non-subscribers". It is like they are screaming at me: "YOU CAN'T HANDLE THE TRUTH". Good, I feel better now.)

"Quaerendo inventis"