A "bolide" is a term used to describe a large meteor that explodes in the atmosphere. These celestial objects are typically composed of rock or metal and can create bright fireballs as they enter Earth's atmosphere at high speeds. When they explode, they can produce a significant amount of light and sound, often referred to as a "fireball." Bolides can vary in size, but they are generally larger than typical meteors. If a bolide survives its passage through the atmosphere and lands on Earth, the remaining fragment is called a meteorite. The study of bolides helps scientists understand more about the composition of our solar system and the potential hazards they may pose.