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Re: FW:Re: (meteorobs) METEORS VS FIREBALLS/BOLIDES
After further investigation I think that the word bolide may have
slightly different meanings depending upon the language. Where I've
been unable to find the word bolide in my Oxford dictionary, it is in my
LaRouse english / french dictionary where it translates to bolide, and
meteor. The LaRouse french dictionary defines it first as a vehicle
which passes at a very great speed, and it gives the word's Greek origin
as being from the Greek for jet. Different languages may have varations
on the meaning of the word. As this list is international in nature I
think I'll come across a few other words that aren't universally
defined.
Myself, I've seen a couple of fireballs, but I have mixed feelings
about being so close to something with so much kinetic energy passing so
close that I could hear it. I'll be content with fireworks displays :-)
Ron (in Gander) (no excitement in my life :-)
Wayne T Hally wrote:
>
> From: "E. L. Jones" <jonee@epixdot net>
>
> (I think this bounced due to a funny word, don't worry about it)
>
> Hello,
> All bolides are fireballs-- but not all fireballs are bolides.
>
> I have been fortunate enough to have seen two bolides in my life-- up close
> and personal. I have seen many fireballs. I can attest that there is a
> dynamic and awesome difference in a bolide and a fireball. I believe that
> a bolide will always have an aural report (in addition to any sonic
> shockwaves i.e sonic "booms"). whether or not the observer is close enough
> for it to be heard. I subscribe to the distinction between them is as
> follows:
>
> A Bolide ia a body which has a "rapid (explosive) expansion at or near the
> end of incandescent flight"
>
> A Fireball is a body which ceases to shine either in burning up or
> reaching dark flight (height of retardation) without the explosive
> expansion.
>
--
R & L Thompson, 9 Medcalf St., Gander, NF, Canada A1V 1R9
Tel (709) 256-1179, Fax (709) 256-8638, e-mail rlthompson@thezonedot net
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