Statistical Analysis Of Cometary Data

In this study an attempt is made to assess statistically the validity of two theories as to the origin of comets. This subject still leads to great controversy amongst astronomers but recently two main schools of thought have developed.

These are that comets are of

(i) planetary origin,

(ii) interstellar origin.

Many theories have been expanded within each school of thought but at the present time one theory in each is generally accepted. This paper sets out to identify the statistical implications of each theory and evaluate each theory in terms of their implications.