what's the difference between meringue on a pie and pavlova meringue?

thanks. I always wondered why I love pavlova but do not like meringue on pie - I prefer whipped cream on pie.

What a great question. Meringue topping for a pie consists of simply egg whites and sugar. It can brown, yet remain tender enough to be cut through with a knife. Pavlovas comprise a few more ingredients in addition to egg whites and sugar: cream of tartar, a pinch of salt, some cornstarch, and a bit of vinegar. The mixture is much more stiff and can be shaped into individual servings that when baked, are crisp on the outside and tender in the center.