Why are orbits of Comets unstable?

In summary, comets do not have a stable orbit like planets, making them more susceptible to the gravitational forces of other objects. This can cause their paths to change and potentially lead to collisions with other objects. Factors such as orbit energy, eccentricity, and orientation can also play a role in the comet's trajectory. It is important to consider these characteristics when examining the stability of comets over time.
  • #1
Riccardo K

Homework Statement


The orbits of the planets remains extremely stable over long times however this not always true for comets. Can you explain why not? What hazards might they encounter during their travels?

Homework Equations


None

The Attempt at a Solution


I think that due to the comet's not having a determined orbit while the comet is traveling it gets affected by multiple gravitational forces so its path is changed and it might crash into another object.
 
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  • #2
You'll have to expand a bit on what you mean by "comet's not having a determined orbit while the comet is traveling". The gravitational influence comment is correct, but could also use some additional fleshing out. For example, what is it about a comet that makes it susceptible to these gravitational influences whereas planets are relatively unaffected despite also constantly being subjected to multiple changing gravitational influences.

You might want to consider the various characteristics of a typical comet as compared to those of say, planets and asteroids (orbit energy, eccentricity, orientation). Are there things other than gravity that influence them? Do they change over different parts of the orbit?
 

1. Why do comets have unstable orbits?

Comets have unstable orbits because they are affected by the gravitational pull of other celestial bodies. As they travel through the solar system, they can be pulled off course by planets or other large objects, causing their orbits to change over time.

2. How do comets get their unstable orbits?

Comets get their unstable orbits from the gravitational forces of the planets in our solar system. These forces can cause the comet's orbit to become elongated or even change direction, making their orbits unpredictable and unstable.

3. Can comets' orbits be predicted?

While scientists can make predictions about the general path of a comet, the specific details of their orbits are difficult to predict due to their instability. Factors such as outgassing and collisions with other objects can also affect the comet's trajectory, making it challenging to accurately predict their orbits.

4. How long do comets' unstable orbits last?

The length of time a comet's orbit remains unstable can vary greatly. Some comets may have unstable orbits for only a few years, while others can have unstable orbits for hundreds or even thousands of years.

5. Can anything be done to stabilize comets' orbits?

There is currently no known way to stabilize the orbits of comets. Their unstable orbits are a natural result of the gravitational forces in our solar system, and attempting to alter their paths would require immense amounts of energy and technology that is currently beyond our capabilities.

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