Meteorite fall

Definition

A meteorite fall is an event where a meteoroid survives its passage through Earth's atmosphere and lands on the surface. It is often accompanied by visible phenomena such as a fireball or explosion.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Meteorite falls are classified into two main types: observed falls and finds.
2. Most meteorite falls result in small fragments scattered over a wide area, known as a strewn field.
3. The majority of meteorites that fall to Earth are stony meteorites, followed by iron and stony-iron types.
4. Meteorite falls provide valuable samples for understanding the early Solar System's composition.
5. Meteorite falls can be dated using radiometric techniques to determine their age and origin.

Review Questions

• What are the primary types of materials found in meteorite falls?
• How do scientists benefit from studying meteorite falls?
• What phenomena typically accompany a meteorite fall?

Related terms

Meteoroid: A small rocky or metallic body traveling through space, which may become a meteor or meteorite upon entering Earth's atmosphere.

Fireball: An exceptionally bright meteor that is visible over a wide area and usually results in a meteorite fall.

Strewn Field: The geographical area over which fragments of a broken-up meteoroid are scattered after falling to Earth.