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What does the coma of a comet refer to?

The solid core of a comet

Region of gas and dust surrounding the nucleus

The coma of a comet refers to the region of gas and dust that surrounds the nucleus as it approaches the Sun. When a comet is closer to the Sun, the heat causes the ices within the comet to vaporize and release gas and dust particles, forming this glowing envelope. This process contributes to the stunning appearance of comets, which can become visible even from great distances.

The coma is distinct from the nucleus, which is the solid core of the comet made up of ice and rocky material. Unlike the options that discuss meteor trails or asteroid paths, the coma is a vital part of a comet's structure, actively formed when the comet is in the inner solar system. The combination of the nucleus and the coma, along with the tail (which develops due to the solar wind pushing particles away from the nucleus), creates the iconic appearance of a comet as it travels through space.

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Trail of debris left by a meteor

The orbiting path of asteroids

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