Meteorite Meaning and Definition

Meaning of meteorite: Delve into the meaning and definition of meteorite on our page. Explore what meteorite truly means and discover its profound significance in the human experience. What does meteorite mean to you?

A meteorite is a solid piece of debris from an object, such as a comet, asteroid, or meteoroid, that originates in outer space and survives its impact with the Earth's surface. When these objects enter the Earth's atmosphere, they are referred to as meteors, commonly known as shooting stars. If a meteor survives its journey through the atmosphere and lands on Earth, it is then classified as a meteorite. Meteorites can vary in size from tiny grains to large masses weighing several tons. Meteorites are important in the study of the solar system and the formation of planets. By analyzing the composition of meteorites, scientists can gain insights into the early processes that occurred in the solar system billions of years ago. They are also valuable for understanding the geological and chemical makeup of the Earth. Meteorites are prized by collectors for their rarity and scientific value.