A vertically oriented rocket that is able to sustain a continuous upward velocity of 8 km/s will
A)escape from Earth.
B)be unable to escape Earth.
C)eventually maintain a fixed orbit around Earth.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In order to escape Earth's gravitational pull, a rocket must achieve a velocity known as the escape velocity, which is approximately 11.2 km/s at the Earth's surface. Since the rocket described in the question is able to sustain a velocity of only 8 km/s, it will not be able to achieve escape velocity and will therefore not be able to escape Earth's gravity. It may enter into orbit around Earth, but given its continuous upward velocity, this is unlikely to be a stable orbit. Therefore, the most appropriate choice is B.

A Vertically Oriented Rocket That Is Able to Sustain a Continuous