What causes a meteor shower?

A meteor shower occurs when Earth passes through a trail of debris left behind by a comet. As comets orbit the Sun, they shed dust and small particles, which spread out along their orbital paths. When Earth intersects this debris field, the particles enter the atmosphere at high speeds, producing bright streaks of light known as meteors. This phenomenon highlights the relationship between comets and meteor showers, emphasizing that it is the collisions of these particles from a comet that leads to the observable effect of meteors raining down during specific times of the year, corresponding with the comet's orbit. Understanding this process clarifies the connection between comets and the spectacular displays seen in meteor showers.