Comets, Astroids and other junk in space Research Paper

Comets, Astroids and other junk in space - Research Paper Example omens of disaster, comets, asteroids and other junks floating in space are now more understood in theories and concepts provided in more advanced scientific discourses and research. In this regard, this essay is written to proffer relevant information on comets, asteroids and other floating objects in space. At the same token, some personal thoughts and reactions on the subject would be inferred in the conclusion. Random House Dictionary defines a comet as â€Å"a celestial body moving about the sun, usually in a highly eccentric orbit, consisting of a central mass surrounded by an envelope of dust and gas that may form a tail that streams away from the sun.† (n.p.) On the other hand, asteroids are defined as â€Å"any of the thousands of small bodies of from 480 miles (775 km) to less than one mile (1.6 km) in diameter that revolve about the sun in orbits lying mostly between those of Mars and Jupiter.† (Random House, 2009) These are also called minor planets. The distinguishing characteristics of comets from asteroids are its location and their composition. Comets come from the coldest part of the solar system which enables them to preserve their icy composition and dust particles. As comets near the vicinity of the sun, they release dust and the gas which evaporates form a gushing trail as it moves. According to Sea and Sky Organization, â€Å"many astronomers refer to them as "dirty snowballs" or "icy mudballs" because that is exactly what they look like. The ice that forms a comet can consist of both water ice and frozen gases.† (par. 3) Asteroids, on the other hand, are found between the planets of Mars and Jupiter and their composition show no ices nor dusts around them. Their sizes range from a few feet to several miles in diameter. There are several theories as to the emergence of asteroids in the location, known famously as the asteroid belt. The Sea and Sky Organization averred the following theories, to wit: â€Å"many astronomers believe that billions