What would happen if the Space Shuttle were launched with a speed greater than Earth's escape velocity?
A)It would orbit Earth at a faster velocity.
B)It would travel in a higher orbit around Earth.
C)It would take less time to reach its bound orbit.
D)It would be in an unstable orbit.
E)It would travel away from Earth into the solar system.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If the Space Shuttle were launched with a speed greater than Earth's escape velocity, it would no longer be bound to Earth and would travel away from Earth into the solar system. This is because the escape velocity is the minimum speed required to overcome Earth's gravitational pull and completely escape its gravity.

What Would Happen If the Space Shuttle Were Launched with a Speed