Definitions
- Referring to a small rocky object that orbits the sun, usually found in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. - Describing a celestial body that is smaller than a planet but larger than a meteoroid. - Talking about a solid object made up of rock and metal that can vary in size from a few meters to hundreds of kilometers.
- Referring to a small celestial body that is similar to a planet but not large enough to be classified as one. - Describing a dwarf planet or a minor planet that is not considered a full-fledged planet. - Talking about a celestial object that orbits the sun and is composed of rock and ice.
List of Similarities
- 1Both refer to celestial bodies that orbit the sun.
- 2Both are composed of rock and other materials.
- 3Both are smaller than planets.
- 4Both can be found in our solar system.
- 5Both have been studied by scientists to learn more about the universe.
What is the difference?
- 1Size: Asteroids can vary in size from a few meters to hundreds of kilometers, while planetoids are generally smaller and not large enough to be classified as planets.
- 2Classification: Asteroids are classified as such based on their location and composition, while planetoids are classified based on their size and characteristics.
- 3Shape: Asteroids can have irregular shapes, while planetoids are more likely to have a spherical or ellipsoidal shape.
- 4Composition: Asteroids are primarily made up of rock and metal, while planetoids can also contain ice and other volatile substances.
- 5Naming: Asteroids are usually given a number and sometimes a name, while planetoids are often named after mythological figures or important people.
Remember this!
Asteroid and planetoid are both terms used to describe celestial bodies that orbit the sun and are smaller than planets. However, there are some key differences between the two. Asteroids are rocky objects found in the asteroid belt and can vary greatly in size, while planetoids are smaller celestial bodies that are not classified as full-fledged planets. Additionally, asteroids are primarily composed of rock and metal, while planetoids can also contain ice and other volatile substances.
