Using Newton's law of gravitation, derive a suitable formula for the escape velocity of an object at Earth's surface.

Newton's law of gravitation is;
F = GMm/(r2)
Where G is the Universal Gravitational constant, M is the mass of Earth, m is the mass of the object and r is the radius of Earth (no values are needed for this as we are simply deriving a formula, not working out a solution)
We can equate this force to the centripetal force experienced by an object at Earth's surface. This is because the centripetal force is what keeps an object in circular motion, acting towards the centre of the circle. It can be thought of as the force pulling us in toward the centre of the Earth, which we know is gravity so therefore is the same as the force given in Newtons law.
F = m(v2)/r (centripetal force)
Therefore;
GMm/(r2) = m(v2)/r
Dividing by m and multiplying by r
GM/r = (v2)
v = (GM/r)1/2where v is the escape velocity

Answered by Charlie M. Physics tutor

4468 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why do atoms larger than iron release energy when they undergo fission?


Where does the simple harmonic motion equation come from and what does it mean?


A projectile is fired at an angle of 30 degrees from the horizontal, it reaches a maximum height of 12m above the ground before coming to rest 600m from its initial starting point at the same level. What is the initial speed of the projectile?


What is viscosity?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences