METEORS

(Gr. ucrewpi.) A name given to any phenomena of a transitory nature which have their origin in the atmosphere. Meteors are of various kinds. Seme are produced simply bj a disturbance of the equilibrium of the atmospheric fluid,and are called atrial meteors. (Sec Winds, Whirlwinds.) A second cla arise from the deposition of the aqueous particles which the atmosphere holds in solution, and which are precipitated in consequence of a diminution of pre ure or temperature, sometimes in a fluid and sometimes in a concrete form. These are called aqueous meteors. (See Dew, Foes, Hail, Rain, Snow, Vapour, Jlc) A third cla of meteors, or atmospherical phenomena, are caused by the action of tho aqueous panicles dispersed in the atmosphere on the rays of light. These are called luminous meteors. (See Fata Morgan a, Halo, Mirage, Parhelia, Rainbow.) A fourth cla are the igneous meteors, comprehending those which present the phenomena distinctive of combustion. See Aerolite, Aurora Borealis, Fire Balls, Lightning, Shooting Stars, . [s. 755]