Will Radial Escape Velocity Launch a Satellite Into Orbit?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on whether a satellite launched with escape velocity directed radially from the Earth would enter into orbit around the planet. Participants explore the implications of escape velocity in different trajectories and the conditions necessary for stable orbital motion.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions if a satellite launched with escape velocity perpendicular to the Earth could achieve orbit.
  • Another participant asserts that escape velocity, by definition, means the satellite cannot maintain a stable orbit and will escape Earth's gravitational influence.
  • A different viewpoint suggests that a satellite traveling at escape velocity would disintegrate due to atmospheric friction before achieving orbit.
  • It is noted that if the satellite has a velocity lower than escape velocity, it could return to Earth unless its trajectory is altered.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement on whether a satellite launched with escape velocity radially could enter orbit, with multiple competing views presented regarding the implications of escape velocity and atmospheric effects.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not fully explore the assumptions related to atmospheric drag or the specific conditions under which a satellite might achieve orbit, leaving these aspects unresolved.

Yatin
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If we provide a satellite with escape velocity perpendicular to the earth(radially), would it start orbiting it?
 
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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.
 
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.
 
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).
 

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