Space Lesson 3- comets, asteroids, meteors

Front

What is a meteorite?

Back

A meteorite is a solid fragment of a meteoroid that survives its passage through the Earth's atmosphere and impacts the Earth's surface.

Front

What are the two types of satellites?

Back

Natural satellites (like moons) and artificial satellites (man-made objects) that orbit around objects in space.

Front

Which direction does a comet's tail point?

Back

A comet's tail always points away from the Sun.

Front

What is the closest planet to the Sun?

Back

Mercury is the closest planet to the Sun.

Front

What is a comet?

Back

A comet is a mixture of ice, frozen gases, rock, and dust left over from the formation of the solar system, which develops a glowing coma and tail when close to the Sun.

Front

What is an asteroid?

Back

An asteroid is a small rocky body that orbits the Sun, primarily found in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter.

Front

What is a meteoroid?

Back

A meteoroid is a small rocky or metallic body in outer space, smaller than an asteroid.

Front

What happens when a meteoroid enters the Earth's atmosphere?

Back

When a meteoroid enters the Earth's atmosphere, it burns up due to friction with the air, creating a bright streak of light known as a meteor.

Front

What is the difference between a comet and an asteroid?

Back

Comets are made of ice and dust, while asteroids are primarily made of rock and metal.

Front

What is the tail of a comet made of?

Back

The tail of a comet is made of gas and dust that is released when the comet approaches the Sun.