🚀
Escape Velocity
AP Physics C · Mechanics — Gravitation
⟲ Reset
🚀 Launch
⛶
Learning Objectives
Derive v_esc = √(2GM/R)
Understand gravitational potential energy U = −GMm/r
Classify orbits by total energy: E < 0 (bound), E ≥ 0 (escape)
Compare escape velocities of planets
Key Equations
v_esc = √(2GM/R)
E = ½mv² − GMm/r
E < 0 → bound orbit
E = 0 → barely escapes
E > 0 → hyperbolic escape
Tags
escape velocity
gravitational PE
binding energy
AP Physics C
v₀
0 km/s
v_esc
0 km/s
Outcome
—
Launch Speed (km/s)
8.0
Planet Mass (×Earth)
1.0
Planet Radius (×Earth)
1.0
Planet Presets
🌍 Earth
🔴 Mars
🟤 Jupiter
🌙 Moon
Energy
KE₀
0
PE₀
0
E_total
0
v_esc
0
Quick Quiz
Earth's escape velocity is about:
11.2 km/s
7.9 km/s
3.4 km/s
25 km/s