S1 Final Exam Flashcard

Front

What is the darkest part of the Earth's shadow called?

Back

Umbra

Front

What is the lighter part of the Earth's shadow called?

Back

Penumbra

Front

Define a meteoroid.

Back

A meteoroid is a small rocky or metallic body in outer space.

Front

What is a meteor?

Back

A meteor is a meteoroid that burns up upon entering the Earth's atmosphere.

Front

What is a meteorite?

Back

A meteorite is a meteoroid that has landed on the Earth's surface.

Front

What is the difference between a meteoroid, meteor, and meteorite?

Back

Meteoroid: Floating in Space; Meteor: Burning in the Atmosphere; Meteorite: Landed on Earth.

Front

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

Back

It becomes a meteor and burns up due to friction.

Front

What is the main difference between umbra and penumbra during an eclipse?

Back

Umbra is the darkest part of the shadow, while penumbra is the lighter outer part.

Front

What causes a meteor to glow?

Back

Friction with the atmosphere causes it to heat up and glow.

Front

What is the significance of studying meteoroids, meteors, and meteorites?

Back

They help us understand the formation of our solar system and the materials that make up celestial bodies.