Meteoroids

A meteoroid is a small rock or particle of debris in our solar system. They can range in size from small grains to objects about 1 meter in diameter. Meteoroids are mostly composed of rock or metal. They are typically fragments of asteroids or comets.

Characteristics of Meteoroids:

• Size: Meteoroids can range from small dust particles to larger rocks up to 1 meter in diameter.
• Composition: They are composed of rock or metal, and sometimes a combination of both.
• Origin: Most meteoroids are fragments from asteroids or comets.
• Speed: Meteoroids travel through space at varying speeds, typically ranging from 11 km/s to 72 km/s.

Formation and Composition:

Meteoroids are formed from the debris left behind by comets or from the collisions between asteroids. They can be composed of various materials, including silicate minerals, metals such as iron and nickel, and organic compounds.

Impact on Earth:

When a meteoroid enters the Earth's atmosphere, it becomes a meteor. The friction with the air heats up the meteoroid and causes it to glow, creating a streak of light in the sky. If the meteoroid survives the atmospheric entry and reaches the Earth's surface, it is then called a meteorite.

Study Guide:

1. What is a meteoroid and what is it composed of?
2. Describe the characteristics of meteoroids.
3. How are meteoroids formed and what are they made of?
4. What happens when a meteoroid enters the Earth's atmosphere?
5. What is the term for a meteoroid that survives the atmospheric entry and reaches the Earth's surface?

Remember to study the characteristics, formation, and impact of meteoroids to gain a comprehensive understanding of this topic.

[Meteoroids] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

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