Which orbit is characterized by varying distance from the planet due to its elliptical shape?

An elliptical orbit is characterized by its oval shape, which inherently means that the distance from the planet varies as the object travels along its path. In this type of orbit, there are points where the object is closest to the planet, known as periapsis, and points where it is farthest away, called apoapsis.

The specific nature of an elliptical orbit allows for the gravitational influence of the planet to vary as well, affecting the speed of the orbiting object. When the satellite is closer to the planet, it moves faster due to stronger gravitational pull, whereas it moves slower when it is further away. This variability in distance and speed is a defining characteristic of elliptical orbits.

In contrast, circular orbits maintain a constant distance from the planet and, consequently, a constant speed, while geostationary orbits are a specific type of circular orbit positioned to match the rotation of the planet. Synchronous orbits may have a consistent orbital period but don't necessarily imply a fixed distance from the planet, similar to geostationary orbits but can also include elliptical shapes. Thus, the defining characteristic of the varying distance aligns perfectly with the properties of an elliptical orbit.