Suppose we discover a comet that is an elliptical orbital plane perpendicular to the ecliptic. What is the most likely place of origin of this comet?
A)the Oort cloud
B)the Kuiper belt
C)the asteroid belt
D)outside the solar system

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Comets with perpendicular elliptical orbital planes are believed to have come from the Oort cloud, which is a cloud of icy debris located at the outermost edge of the solar system. Comets from the Kuiper belt and asteroid belt typically have more aligned orbits with the plane of the ecliptic. Comets from outside the solar system would have completely random orbits.

Suppose We Discover a Comet That Is an Elliptical Orbital