Solar System – Minor bodies between Mars and Jupiter\nWhat name is given to the minor planets that revolve between the orbits of Jupiter and Mars?

Introduction / Context:
The solar system contains many small bodies besides the eight major planets. A notable concentration exists between Mars and Jupiter, forming what is commonly known as the main asteroid belt. Identifying the correct term for these minor planets is essential vocabulary in basic astronomy and geography.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Main orbital region: between Mars and Jupiter.
• Asked term: the collective name for small, rocky minor planets in that region.
• Exactly one option correctly labels these bodies.

Concept / Approach:
Objects in the main belt are called asteroids (or minor planets). They are primarily rocky/metallic and can vary greatly in size. “Novas” are stellar explosions, not solar-system bodies. “Comets” are icy bodies with elongated orbits and develop comae/tails near the Sun. “Meteors” are streaks of light produced when small particles enter and burn up in Earth’s atmosphere.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Map region → main belt between Mars and Jupiter.Recall nomenclature: minor planets in belt = asteroids.Eliminate distractors (nova/comet/meteor).Select “Asteroids”.

Verification / Alternative check:
Examples such as Ceres, Vesta, and Pallas reside in the main belt and are classified as asteroids (Ceres is also a dwarf planet under modern definitions).

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Novas: stellar phenomena, unrelated to planetary orbits.
• Comets: icy bodies, typically from Kuiper Belt/Oort Cloud; not “minor planets between Mars and Jupiter.”
• Meteors: atmospheric streaks seen from Earth, not orbiting minor planets.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing meteors (appearance in sky) with meteoroids/asteroids (space rocks). The question specifically targets orbital location and classification.

Final Answer:
Asteroids