 |
|
| A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z |
|
|
parabolic velocity
The velocity which an object at a given point would require in order to describe a parabola about the center of attraction. This is also the escape velocity since it is the upper limit of velocity on a closed curve. It is obtained by multiplying the velocity of an object moving in a circular orbit by the square root of 2 (approx. 1.414). For example, if the Earth's mean velocity around the Sun of 29.8 km/sec. (18.5 miles/sec.), in a near circular orbit, were increased to 42 km/sec. (26 miles/sec.), the Earth would move to a parabolic path and escape from the solar system.
Related category
• CELESTIAL MECHANICS
Also on this site:
Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living
Encyclopedia of History
Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site)