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

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Earth's escape velocity is the speed required to escape its gravitational pull. If the Space Shuttle were launched with a speed greater than Earth's escape velocity, it would have enough kinetic energy to overcome Earth's gravitational pull and would travel away from Earth into the solar system.

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