Question

a table comparing three celestial objects is shown here. which identification best differentiates the objects as an asteroid, meteoroid, or comet? select all that apply
a object 1 is a comet because it has an icy cover
b object 2 is an asteroid because it is large and stays in space
c objects 1 and 2 are meteoroids because they are larger than the other object
d objects 2 and 3 are comets because they are rocky and can occasionally enter the atmosphere
e object 3 is a meteoroid because it potentially breaks off from another object and can enter earths atmosphere

Explanation:

• Option A: Comets are often composed of rock covered in ice. So, Object I being rock - covered in ice makes it a good candidate for a comet.
• Option B: Asteroids are large (compared to meteoroids) rocky bodies that stay in space. Object II is a large (10 m) rocky body that has not entered Earth's atmosphere, so it can be an asteroid.
• Option C: Meteoroids are smaller (usually less than 1 - meter in size, but up to a certain limit) and when they enter the atmosphere they become meteors. Objects I (50 km) and II (10 m) are too large to be meteoroids.
• Option D: Comets are not just rocky. Comets have a composition of ice and dust. Objects II and III are only rocky, so they are not comets.
• Option E: Meteoroids are small rocky or metallic bodies. When they enter the Earth's atmosphere, they can burn up (become meteors). Object III is small (6m) and has entered Earth's atmosphere, so it can be a meteoroid.

Answer:

A. Object I is a comet because it has an icy cover; B. Object II is an asteroid because it is large and stays in space; E. Object III is a meteoroid because it potentially breaks off from another object and can enter Earth's atmosphere.