Use of forces to escape the Earth

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of using electromagnetism to propel an object away from Earth's surface and into orbit. While theoretically possible, it is not practical due to the high speeds required and the limitations of current technology. This method has been researched and used in current propulsion systems.
  • #1
rodgergibbs
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If gravity is as we know a weak force and magnetism is a strong force, would it be possible to use electromagnetism to propel an object fast enough away from the Earth's surface to escape the pull of gravity and at least put an object in orbit. I assume you would need a long horizontal then curving into vertical trajectory. Has this ever been looked into?
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF rodgergibbs. Theoretically you could use a rail gun to put an object into orbit from some solar system bodies. However, this isn't practical on earth. One big problem is the fact that orbital velocity is over 17,000 MPH which is well above mach one for a projectile being launched from the surface. Anything fired at that speed from the surface would likely burn up in the atmosphere. And, even if it didn't, it would create seriously loud sonic booms whenever it was launched.
 
  • #3
Hello rodgergibbs, :welcome:
You still have to overcome gravity ...
And you bet it's been looked into ! Google electromagnetic railgun
 
  • #4
rodgergibbs said:
would it be possible to use electromagnetism to propel an object fast enough away from the Earth's surface to escape the pull of gravity and at least put an object in orbit

We actually do that. All currently used propulsion systems are based on electromagnetic forces. Maybe you need to specify your question.
 
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Related to Use of forces to escape the Earth

1. What is the purpose of using forces to escape the Earth?

The main purpose of using forces to escape the Earth is to overcome the pull of gravity and achieve enough speed to break free from the Earth's atmosphere and reach outer space.

2. What type of forces are used to escape the Earth?

The two main types of forces used to escape the Earth are thrust and the force of gravity. Thrust is generated by rockets or other propulsion systems, while the force of gravity is constantly pulling objects towards the Earth.

3. How much force is needed to escape the Earth?

The amount of force needed to escape the Earth depends on several factors, such as the mass of the object, the distance from the Earth, and the strength of the gravitational pull. Generally, a significant amount of force is required to overcome the Earth's gravity and achieve escape velocity.

4. What is escape velocity?

Escape velocity is the speed at which an object must travel to break free from the Earth's gravitational pull and enter into orbit around the Earth or travel to other celestial bodies. It is calculated based on the mass and radius of the Earth.

5. Can forces be used to escape the Earth without rockets?

Currently, rockets are the only known method for using forces to escape the Earth. However, there have been theories and proposals for using other forces, such as electromagnetic propulsion or gravitational slingshots, but they have not yet been successfully implemented for escaping the Earth.

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