How are the orbits of most comets described?

The orbits of most comets are best described as elliptical. This is due to the gravitational influences of the Sun and other celestial bodies. Comets typically originate from regions like the Kuiper Belt or the Oort Cloud, where they can remain dormant until they are disturbed into an orbit that brings them closer to the Sun. When they approach the Sun, their trajectory results in a highly elongated elliptical orbit, which accounts for their characteristic long periods of visibility and the bright tails that form as they heat up.

The nature of these orbits explains why comets can take years, decades, or even centuries to complete a single revolution around the Sun. Unlike circular orbits, which maintain a constant distance from the Sun, elliptical orbits have varying distances, allowing comets to travel far out into space before returning. This elliptical behavior significantly influences their appearance and the dynamics of their interactions with other celestial bodies.