Introduction to Space Science Vocabulary

Front

What causes a crater on a celestial object?

Back

Meteorite impact.

Front

Define diameter in the context of a circle or sphere.

Back

A straight line passing from side to side through the center of a body or figure.

Front

What is the definition of an orbit?

Back

The path an object takes as it moves around another object due to gravity.

Front

What characterizes a gaseous planet?

Back

A large planet primarily made of gases, such as hydrogen and helium.

Front

What is gravity?

Back

A force that attracts objects toward each other.

Front

What is the difference between a terrestrial planet and a gaseous planet?

Back

Terrestrial planets are rocky and solid, while gaseous planets are primarily composed of gases.

Front

What role does gravity play in the formation of celestial bodies?

Back

Gravity pulls matter together to form stars, planets, and other celestial bodies.

Front

How does the size of a planet affect its gravitational pull?

Back

Larger planets have a stronger gravitational pull due to their greater mass.

Front

What is the significance of the asteroid belt in our solar system?

Back

It separates the inner rocky planets from the outer gaseous planets and contains many small celestial bodies.

Front

What is the difference between a comet and an asteroid?

Back

Comets are icy bodies that release gas or dust, while asteroids are rocky or metallic objects.