Skip to main content

What are Meteors?

1,018,903 Views

1,800 Questions Answered

Best of Web

Let’s Begin…

What's the difference between a meteor, meteorite, and meteoroid ... and exactly how scared should we be? Crash Course explains exactly what happens when earth encounters debris as it plows its course around the sun. 

When comets orbit the sun, the ice on them turns to gas, dislodging dust and gravel that fall away from the comet but stay in orbit, creating a puffy ribbon of debris orbiting the sun. What is the phenomenon called when earth's orbit crosses this ribbon?

Sign in to answer question

About TED-Ed Best of Web

TED-Ed Best of Web are exceptional, user-created lessons that are carefully selected by volunteer teachers and TED-Ed staff.

Meet The Creators

More from Awesome Nature