IB Physics Fields: Escape Speed

This video tutorial covers the concept of escape speed in physics, explaining its definition, formula, and application. It discusses the energy transformations during a rocket launch and derives the escape speed equation. Key points include the independence of escape speed from the object's mass and its relation to gravitational fields. A sample question is solved to demonstrate the calculation of escape speed.

What is the correct term to describe the speed needed to break free from Earth's gravitational pull?

• Escape velocity

• Escape speed

• Orbital speed

• Terminal velocity

Which of the following variables is NOT needed to calculate escape speed?

• Mass of the object

• Gravitational constant

• Mass of the planet

• Distance from the planet's center

During a rocket launch, what happens to the kinetic energy as the rocket ascends?

• It remains constant

• It increases

• It decreases

• It becomes zero

What principle is used to derive the escape speed formula?

• Conservation of Energy

• Newton's First Law

• Law of Universal Gravitation

• Conservation of Momentum

How does increasing the mass of a planet affect the escape speed?

• It doubles the escape speed

• It increases the escape speed

• It has no effect on escape speed

• It decreases the escape speed

What is the main difference between escape speed and orbital speed?

• They are the same

• Orbital speed is always less than escape speed

• Orbital speed depends on the mass of the object

• Escape speed is always less than orbital speed

In the sample calculation, what is the escape speed required for a space shuttle to leave Earth's surface?

• 9.8 km/s

• 7.9 km/s

• 11.2 km/s

• 15.0 km/s