If humans went extinct, what would the Earth look like one year later?

Maybe it was a nuclear war, devastating climate change, or a killer virus. But if something caused people to disappear, imagine what would happen afterward.

By: Carlton Basmajian, Iowa State University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: April 26, 2026

Words: 1,268

Last Updated: 3 months ago

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By Carlton Basmajian, Iowa State University

Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to curiouskidsus@theconversation.com.

If humans went extinct, what would the Earth look like one year later? – Essie, age 11, Michigan

Have you ever wondered what the world would be like if everyone suddenly disappeared?

What would happen to all our …

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