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

CM
Answered by Charlie M. Physics tutor

5836 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

How does light from distant stars show how fast they are moving away from us.


Why does light change direction when it hits a surface with a different refractive index?


Define the term "Gravitational Potential" and write down a formula which defines it.


What is the maximum frequency photon of one of the photons produced when a electron and positron annihilate each other?


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