Why does a shooting star light up in the sky?

Question

A.Because nuclear fusion occurs inside the meteor’s trail 

B.Because the air surrounding the meteor bursts into flames 

C.Because the air molecules combine with the molecules of the meteor 

D.Because the meteor is burning 

E.Because the air surrounding the meteor heats up due to ram pressure

Answer 1

Personally, I wouldn't choose any of them but I guess C comes closest. However, the air molecules don't combine with those of the meteor. Instead, the friction caused by the plummeting meteor impacting the air molecules creates intense heat, which is what causes the fiery trail as it falls.