📖 what
What is the difference between a meteor, a meteoroid, and a meteorite?
SpaceSmall bodies
Quick Answer
A meteoroid is the space rock, a meteor is the streak of light it makes in the atmosphere, and a meteorite is what reaches the ground.
The Full Story
These three words describe the same object at different stages. In space it is a meteoroid; when it enters Earth’s atmosphere and glows from friction and compression, it is seen as a meteor. If part of it survives the plunge and lands on Earth, it becomes a meteorite. Most meteors burn up completely before reaching the surface.
Key Facts
1.Meteoroid = in space
2.Meteor = glowing streak in the atmosphere
3.Meteorite = survives to the ground
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"The three names of a space rock on its way to Earth"