(meteorobs) Difference between Bolides and Fireballs -OT

[drobnock]

If this is the accepted U.S. definition of bolide from the  (USGS) then
the  word " impact"  semantics needs some clarification. From the
definition "explodes upon impact, and creates a large crater" may be
fitting to define the Chesapeake impact. If the impact is in the upper
atmosphere with fragmentation and noise (forget electrphonics) and there
is no crater created, does it qualify as a bolide? If there is a an air
burst and trees are flattened as in Tunguska is that a bolide? If the
impact is in a lake or ocean or glacier and there is no  crater visible
is it a bolide? If in a large body of water and a tsunami results, a
bolide?

In the best case use of the term bolide is suited for a spectacular
event that is observed visually. To use the term to describe a pre-
historic event not observed or recorded is best described an an  impact
crater.

George John Drobnock