If a rocket is launched vertically upward with a speed of 11.2 km/sec, it will be able to escape the earth. Now suppose that the rocket is launched almost horizontally with the same speed. Neglecting air resistance, will the rocket still be able to escape from the earth?

Gnomon

If a rocket is travelling at escape velocity, it doesn't matter what direction it is pointing (neglecting air {resistance);} it will still escape into space. But air resistance is important, so real rockets try and escape from the atmosphere as quicklly as possible, so they go straight up. Dec 28 02, 5:21 PM