Asteroids, Comets, and Meteoroids Flashcard

Front

What are asteroids primarily composed of?

Back

Large metallic rocks that orbit the sun.

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What are meteors often mistaken for?

Back

Shooting stars.

Front

What is a meteorite?

Back

A space rock that enters the atmosphere and hits Earth's surface.

Front

Where can you find a meteoroid?

Back

In space.

Front

What is the Kuiper Belt?

Back

A region in space beyond Neptune filled with icy bodies.

Front

What is the difference between a comet and an asteroid?

Back

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

Front

What causes a meteor shower?

Back

Meteor showers occur when Earth passes through the debris left by a comet.

Front

What is the Oort Cloud?

Back

A theoretical cloud of icy bodies surrounding the solar system, believed to be the source of long-period comets.

Front

How do scientists track asteroids?

Back

Scientists use telescopes and radar to observe and track the orbits of asteroids.

Front

What is the significance of studying asteroids?

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Studying asteroids helps us understand the early solar system and potential threats to Earth.