What is the term for a natural or manmade object in orbit around Earth or another planet?

Prepare for the DIVE Earth Science Quarterly Exam 1. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The term "satellite" specifically refers to any natural or manmade object that orbits around Earth or another celestial body. In the context of Earth, natural satellites include the Moon, which orbits our planet due to gravitational forces. In addition to natural satellites, humans have launched a variety of artificial satellites into orbit for purposes such as communication, weather monitoring, and scientific research.

The other options represent different celestial objects. An asteroid is a small rocky body that orbits the Sun, primarily found in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. A comet, on the other hand, is composed of ice, dust, and rocky material and is known for its distinctive tail that appears when it gets close to the Sun. A planet is a large celestial body that orbits a star, such as Earth orbiting the Sun, and is characterized by its significant mass and the ability to clear its orbit of debris. While asteroids, comets, and planets can also be found in orbit, the term “satellite” is the most appropriate descriptor for objects specifically in orbit around a planet or a moon.

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