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

The correct answer is D. The friction with the air heats up the meteor to the point where it becomes so hot that it glows. Much of it is burning off as it falls. This is why spacecraft returning to earth need a heat shield, something that will absorb the heat of friction with the air and protect the rest of the craft. It is also why one of the space shuttles burned up and disintegrated during reentry to earth when some of its protective tiles had fallen off during its launch.