The horizontal velocity required to launch into orbit is approximately 7.8 kilometers per second (km/s). This is known as the orbital velocity.
The horizontal velocity required for launch is calculated using the formula v = √(GM/r), where v is the orbital velocity, G is the gravitational constant, M is the mass of the central body, and r is the distance from the center of the central body to the object's orbit.
Horizontal velocity is important for achieving orbit because it allows the object to overcome the gravitational pull of the central body and maintain a stable orbit. Without enough horizontal velocity, the object would simply fall back to the ground.
Yes, the required horizontal velocity for launch into orbit differs depending on the altitude and shape of the orbit. For example, a low Earth orbit would require a lower horizontal velocity compared to a geostationary orbit.
Air resistance does not have a significant effect on the required horizontal velocity for orbit, as most rockets are launched vertically and quickly leave the Earth's atmosphere. However, air resistance can affect the shape and trajectory of the orbit once the object is in space.