GED Science Practice

What term is used in astronomy to describe small solid extraterrestrial bodies hitting the earth's atmosphere?

1. mold

2. the marked transformation of a larva into an adult

3. any of the small solid extraterrestrial bodies

4. solid inorganic substances occurring in nature

The correct answer is: solid inorganic substances occurring in nature

The term that describes small solid extraterrestrial bodies hitting the Earth's atmosphere is best defined as "any of the small solid extraterrestrial bodies." These bodies, commonly referred to as meteoroids, enter the atmosphere and become meteors when they produce a visible streak of light due to the intense heat from friction with the atmosphere. This definition aligns with the scientific understanding of these objects, which can include various sizes and compositions, primarily consisting of rock, metal, or a combination of both. When these bodies enter the atmosphere, they often burn up and create a phenomenon known as a meteor shower if multiple bodies are involved. The other options do not pertain to this definition; for example, the transformation of a larva into an adult is a biological process and does not relate to astronomy, nor do the concepts of mold or solid inorganic substances adequately describe the small solid extraterrestrial bodies coming into the Earth's atmosphere. Therefore, identifying these small bodies correctly hinges on understanding their classification in the context of astronomical phenomena.