What type of orbit describes a non-circular path around a body?

An elliptical orbit describes a non-circular path around a body because it consists of an elongated shape, resembling an oval. This type of orbit is characterized by two focal points, with the body being located at one focus, and it allows for varying distances from the body throughout the orbit. As a satellite or object travels along this path, its speed and gravitational influence from the body will change, causing the object to accelerate when close to the body (perigee) and decelerate when farther away (apogee).

In contrast, a circular orbit maintains a constant distance from the body at all points, making it a specific case that does not apply when describing a non-circular path. Similarly, synchronous orbits refer to orbits where a satellite matches the rotational period of the body it orbits, and geostationary orbits are a particular type of synchronous orbit that remains in a fixed position relative to the Earth's surface. All these options are thus not applicable when looking for a definition that captures the essence of a non-circular path, which is accurately represented by an elliptical orbit.