Will Radial Escape Velocity Launch a Satellite Into Orbit?

In summary, escape velocity, regardless of the direction, will result in the satellite not being able to maintain a stable orbit and eventually escaping from the Earth's gravity. Any trajectory that does not collide with anything will result in escape.
  • #1
Yatin
20
1
If we provide a satellite with escape velocity perpendicular to the earth(radially), would it start orbiting it?
 
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  • #2
Yatin said:
If we provide a satellite with escape velocity perpendicular to the earth(radially), would it start orbiting it?
No. Do you understand what escape velocity is?
I'm guessing that you were shown escape velocity as it applied to a horizontal trajectory. But any trajectory that does not collide with anything will result in escape.
 
  • #3
If it is traveling at escape velocity, it is by definition not able to maintain a stable orbit and must eventually escape from the Earth's field of gravity.
 
  • #4
No, it would quickly disintegrate due to friction with the Earth's atmosphere.

Disregarding that fact: No, if it has escape velocity or higher it will never return to Earth. If it has a lower velocity, it will (unless you change its direction at some point).
 

1. What is radial escape velocity?

Radial escape velocity is the minimum speed a satellite needs to achieve in order to break away from the gravitational pull of the Earth and enter an orbit around it.

2. How is radial escape velocity calculated?

Radial escape velocity is calculated using the formula v = √(GM/r), where G is the gravitational constant, M is the mass of the Earth, and r is the distance from the center of the Earth to the satellite.

3. What factors affect radial escape velocity?

The factors that affect radial escape velocity include the mass of the Earth, the distance from the Earth's center, and the mass of the satellite. The larger the mass of the Earth and the closer the distance to the center, the higher the radial escape velocity required. Similarly, a heavier satellite will require a higher escape velocity.

4. Can radial escape velocity vary for different types of satellites?

Yes, radial escape velocity can vary for different types of satellites depending on their mass and the altitude of their desired orbit. For example, a satellite in a geostationary orbit will require a higher escape velocity than a satellite in a low Earth orbit.

5. How does radial escape velocity impact launching a satellite into orbit?

Radial escape velocity is a critical factor in launching a satellite into orbit. If the satellite does not reach the necessary velocity, it will not be able to enter an orbit and will either crash back to Earth or get pulled into a different orbit. Therefore, it is essential for scientists and engineers to accurately calculate and achieve the required radial escape velocity for successful satellite launches.

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