Naked Science Forum

Non Life Sciences => Physics, Astronomy & Cosmology => Topic started by: AlphBravo on 09/01/2010 00:21:05

Title: How old are Perseide? & Leonid? meteor trails
Post by: AlphBravo on 09/01/2010 00:21:05
During June and November we get those events when the Planet encounters these dust and vapour trails, when did these event/s take place and how long will are they likely to occur, given that each time the planet would soak up most this debris?
Title: How old are Perseide? & Leonid? meteor trails
Post by: Soul Surfer on 09/01/2010 23:47:13
The proportion of debris intercepted by the earth is very small in one encounter and some meteor showers probably last many thousands or even millions of years.  the most likely reason for the failure of a shower is the deflection of the stream by interaction with the earth or other planets so that it no longer intercepts the earth.  Some showers are very clumpy and variable the leonids are particularly prone to this