How does the material composition of a comet typically differ structurally from an asteroid when both are heated by the Sun?
Answer
The comet reacts dramatically by developing a coma and tails, while the asteroid generally remains inert.
The fundamental material difference—ice in comets versus rock/metal in asteroids—means that comets become active when heated, whereas asteroids typically do not unless significantly impacted.
Related Questions
What is the famous analogy used to describe the fundamental composition of a comet?What process causes the ices on a comet's surface to transform directly into gas as it nears the Sun?What is the term for the temporary, vast, hazy atmosphere that forms around a comet's nucleus when it becomes active?What is the name of the solid, central component that constitutes the true heart of a comet?Which tail component is directly influenced by the solar wind, causing it to stream straight away from the Sun?What is the primary composition of the dust tail, which often appears yellowish or white?From which frigid outer regions of the solar system do comets primarily originate?What celestial event occurs when Earth passes through the trail of debris left behind by a comet's orbital path?How does the material composition of a comet typically differ structurally from an asteroid when both are heated by the Sun?Compared to the surface of the Moon, how does the material that makes up a comet generally appear when reflecting light?