asteroids Definition
small, rocky objects that orbit the sun, mostly found in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter.
Using asteroids: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "asteroids" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Asteroids are remnants from the formation of the solar system.
Example
NASA has sent several missions to study asteroids up close.
Example
Some asteroids are large enough to be considered dwarf planets.
Phrases with asteroids
the region of the solar system between Mars and Jupiter where most asteroids are found
Example
The asteroid belt is located between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter.
near-Earth asteroid
an asteroid whose orbit brings it close to Earth
Example
NASA is monitoring near-Earth asteroids for potential impact hazards.
Trojan asteroid
an asteroid that shares an orbit with a planet, either leading or following the planet in its orbit
Example
Jupiter has many Trojan asteroids in its orbit.
Origins of asteroids
from Greek 'astēr' meaning 'star' and 'eidos' meaning 'form'
Summary: asteroids in Brief
'Asteroids' [ˈæstərɔɪdz] are small, rocky objects that orbit the sun, mostly found in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. They are remnants from the formation of the solar system and have been studied by NASA through several missions. Phrases like 'asteroid belt,' 'near-Earth asteroid,' and 'Trojan asteroid' denote specific types of asteroids and their locations.