. A small, rocky object that orbits the Sun (mostly between Mars and Jupiter).
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2 points
comet
meteorite
meteor
asteroid
The correct answer is an asteroid.
To determine the correct choice, we can refer to the characteristics of each option:
1. A comet is a small celestial body made mostly of ice and dust that orbits the Sun. Comets typically have a tail when they approach the Sun due to the heat causing the ice to vaporize. However, the given object is described as "rocky," which does not align with the composition of a comet.
2. A meteorite is a piece of rock or metal that survives its passage through the Earth's atmosphere and lands on the surface. However, the given object is said to orbit the Sun, which means it does not strike Earth's surface. Therefore, a meteorite is not the correct choice.
3. A meteor is the visible streak of light that occurs when a meteoroid (small solid object) enters the Earth's atmosphere and burns up due to the heat generated by friction. Again, the given object is said to orbit the Sun, meaning it does not burn up in the atmosphere. Therefore, a meteor is not the correct choice either.
4. An asteroid is a small, rocky object that orbits the Sun. They are mainly found in the asteroid belt, which is located between Mars and Jupiter. The given description perfectly fits an asteroid.
Therefore, the correct answer is "asteroid."