What is the Difference Between Asteroid and Meteoroid?

The main difference between asteroids and meteoroids lies in their size and location:

• Asteroids:
• Asteroids are small, rocky objects that orbit the Sun.
• They are larger than meteoroids and can range in size from pebbles to objects several hundred miles in diameter.
• Most asteroids are found in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, but they can also be found in other locations around the solar system.
• Meteoroids:
• Meteoroids are small pieces of rock or other space debris, typically smaller than asteroids.
• They can be pebble-sized or even smaller.
• When a meteoroid comes close to Earth and enters its atmosphere, it vaporizes and turns into a meteor, creating a streak of light in the sky.

In summary, asteroids are larger rocky objects that orbit the Sun, while meteoroids are smaller pieces of space debris. When meteoroids enter Earth's atmosphere, they create a visible streak of light known as a meteor.

Comparative Table: Asteroid vs Meteoroid

Here is a table summarizing the differences between asteroids and meteoroids:

In summary, asteroids are larger than meteoroids and are mainly found between Mars and Jupiter. They are composed of rock, metal, or carbon. Meteoroids, on the other hand, are smaller rocky fragments of asteroids, comets, or moons. When asteroids or meteoroids enter Earth's atmosphere, they become meteors and may vaporize or survive the atmospheric entry, becoming meteorites.