Escape velocity of an Earth-Moon system

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves determining the escape velocity required to leave the Earth-Moon system from the surface of the Moon. Participants are considering the implications of the gravitational influences of both the Earth and the Moon in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • One participant suggests calculating the escape velocity by finding the center of mass between the Earth and the Moon and using that distance. Others prompt for clarification on the concept of escape velocity and its relevance to the Earth-Moon system, indicating the need for a diagram to visualize forces and velocities.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of escape velocity and its calculation. Guidance has been offered regarding the need for diagrams and consideration of relevant forces, but no consensus has been reached on a specific approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants are encouraged to clarify their understanding of escape velocity and its implications in the context of the Earth-Moon system, which may involve assumptions about the motion of both celestial bodies.

cragar
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Homework Statement


What velocity is required to escape from the Earth-Moon system from the surface of
the Moon? Assume that all of the necessary velocity is imparted at once, as with a
cannon or rail gun on the Moon itself. In what direction must the initial velocity vector
be pointed to ensure the lowest escape velocity?

The Attempt at a Solution


Would i just find the center of mass between Earth and the moon and then use the distance from the center of mass to the surface of the moon to find the escape velocity.
 
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What you need is some relevant equations. Any suggestions ?
Suppose you have this center of mass position. Then what ?
 
Ask yourself: what is escape velocity?

What are you "escaping" from and how might it be relevant to the Earth and Moon?

Your starting point, once you've answered those questions, should be a diagram of the Earth and Moon, showing some relevant forces.
 
tjmiller88 said:
Ask yourself: what is escape velocity?

What are you "escaping" from and how might it be relevant to the Earth and Moon?

Your starting point, once you've answered those questions, should be a diagram of the Earth and Moon, showing some relevant forces.

...and velocities; The Earth and Moon are not stationary with respect to one another :wink:
 

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