Find an expression for the escape velocity of a test object.

Escape velocity is the velocity required to just escape the gravitational pull of a body. The gravitational force of a body is given by Newtons Law:
F = GMm / r2 (where G is the gravitational constant, M is the mass of the body, m is the mass of the test object and r is the distance from the centre of the body to the centre of the test object)
So, the velocity of the test object you want to remove from the field needs to be enough so that the centripetal force is the same as the gravitational force. The centripetal force is given by:
F = mv2 / r (where v is the linear velocity of the test object)
So, to calculate the expression for the escape velocity: equate the two equations and rearrange to make v the subject.
GMm/r2 = mv2/r
GM/r = v2
So,
v = (GM/r)1/2

CN
Answered by Ciara N. Physics tutor

2462 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

What's the difference between Potential Difference and Electromotive Force


Is Pluto a planet?


A spherical object of mass 150kg is orbiting the Earth. The distance between the centre of the object and the centre of the Earth is 25,000m. What is the kinetic energy of the object?


Explain how a standing wave is formed


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning