Escape Velocity
Description
Escape velocity is the speed at which the kinetic energy plus the gravitational potential energy of an object is zero. It is the speed needed to “break free” from a gravitational field without further propulsion. For a spherically symmetric massive body, the escape velocity at a given distance can be calculated by the mass of the massive body, and the distance from the center of gravity. ( Atmospheric friction (air drag) is not taken into account).
“Escape velocity” is the initial speed required to go from an initial point in a gravitational potential field to infinity with a residual velocity of zero, with all speeds and velocities measured with respect to the field.
Variables
Ue | Escape Velocity (m/s) |
G | Newtonian constant of gravitation |
M | Mass of the massive body (kg) |
r | Distance from center of gravity (m) |