Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Planetary Geology

Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Planetary Geology 1. Meteoroid vs. Meteor vs. Meteorite These three words often cause confusion. A meteoroid is a small rock or particle in space. When it enters Earth's atmosphere and burns up, it's called a meteor. If any part of it survives and lands on Earth, it becomes a meteorite. 2. Crater vs. Caldera While both are depressions on a planetary surface, there's a difference. A crater is formed by a meteorite impact, while a caldera is a volcanic depression, usually larger and caused by a volcanic eruption. 3. Planet vs. Dwarf Planet The distinction here is based on size and other factors. A planet is a celestial body that orbits the Sun, is spherical, and has cleared its orbit. A dwarf planet, although spherical, hasn't cleared its orbit and is usually smaller. 4. Regolith vs. Soil