What is the difference between asteroids and comets? 1. Asteroids are small rocky planetoids, while comets are formed of frozen gases held together by a rocky and metallic material. 2. Asteroids are found mostly between the orbits of Jupiter and Mars, while comets are found mostly between Venus and Mercury. 3. Comets show a perceptible glowing tail, while asteroids do not. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

QUESTION

Easy

Science & Technology

Prelims 2011

What is the difference between asteroids and comets?

Asteroids are small rocky planetoids, while comets are formed of frozen gases held together by a rocky and metallic material.
Asteroids are found mostly between the orbits of Jupiter and Mars, while comets are found mostly between Venus and Mercury.
Comets show a perceptible glowing tail, while asteroids do not.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Select an option to attempt

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Asteroids are small, rocky objects that orbit the Sun. They are often referred to as minor planets or planetoids. Comets are composed of frozen gases (like carbon dioxide, methane, and water ice) mixed with dust and rocky material.

Statement 2 is incorrect: While it is true that most asteroids are found in the Asteroid Belt between Mars and Jupiter, comets are not found between Venus and Mercury. Comets originate from the outer solar system, specifically the Kuiper Belt and the Oort Cloud, far beyond the orbit of Neptune.

Statement 3 is correct: When a comet's orbit brings it close to the Sun, it heats up and releases gases and dust, creating a visible atmosphere (coma) and a characteristic glowing tail that points away from the Sun. Asteroids, being rocky and metallic with little volatile ice, do not develop such tails.

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