velocity of escape
Definition of velocity of escape
: a velocity that if attained by a moving body (as a rocket) would enable it to escape from the gravitational field of the earth or a celestial body and move outward in space the ability of a celestial body to retain an atmosphere around it depends on the velocity of escape at its surface— R. H. Baker this critical speed of seven miles a second is known as the earth's velocity of escape— P. A. Moore
Comments on velocity of escape
What made you want to look up velocity of escape? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Words from Greek and Roman Mythology Quiz
-
- Boreal comes from the name of the ancient Greek god of which wind?
Test your visual vocabulary with our 10-question challenge!
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridgedWords at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
-
Words from Greek and Roman Mythology Quiz
A mythological/etymological mashup!
Take the quiz -
Great Scrabble Words—A Quiz
Words to improve your Scrabble game
Take the quiz -
Name That Thing
Test your visual vocabulary with our 10-question challenge!
Take the quiz -
Syn City
Build a city of skyscrapers—one synonym at a time.
Play the game
Share velocity of escape
Resources for velocity of escape