Asteroids, Comets, and Meteors Video Quiz

What happens to a comet's icy shell when it gets too close to the Sun?

• It freezes further, making the comet denser.

• It sublimates, creating a glowing coma and an infamous tail.

• It breaks apart into smaller asteroids due to the Sun's gravity.

• It speeds up and changes its elliptical orbit to a circular one.

What is the primary compositional difference between an asteroid and a comet?

• Asteroids are much larger than comets.

• Comets possess an icy shell, which asteroids lack.

• Asteroids are found in the inner solar system, while comets are found in the outer solar system.

• Comets have a tail, while asteroids do not.

What is the typical size of most meteoroids?

• Larger than an asteroid.

• The size of a dust grain.

• The size of a pebble.

• The size of a small car.

What is the key distinction between a meteor and a meteorite?

• A meteor is a large space rock, while a meteorite is a small one.

• A meteor burns up in Earth's atmosphere, while a meteorite successfully reaches the Earth's surface.

• A meteor originates from the asteroid belt, while a meteorite comes from Mars.

• A meteor is visible during the day, while a meteorite is visible at night.