What is the term for a small planetary body that orbits a planet?

Prepare for the Washington Comprehensive Assessment of Science Test with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question offers hints and explanations to get you ready for exam success!

The correct answer is "moon." A moon, also known as a natural satellite, is a smaller celestial body that orbits a planet. Most planets in our solar system have moons, and they can vary greatly in size and composition. Moons are distinct from artificial satellites, which are human-made objects placed into orbit around a planet.

In the context of the options provided, even though both "satellite" and "moon" relate to orbiting bodies, "satellite" is a broader term that includes both natural and artificial objects orbiting a planet. The term "asteroid" refers to small rocky bodies primarily found in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, and "comet" refers to icy bodies that release gas and dust, forming a glowing coma and sometimes a tail when they approach the sun. Therefore, "moon" is the most specific term for a small planetary body that directly orbits a planet.

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