The gravitational force exerted by the Sun on the Moon is about twice as great as the gravitational force exerted by the earth on the Moon, but still Moon is not escaping from the gravitational influence of the earth. Mark the option which correctly explains the above system.

Options

A. Escape speed is independent of the direction in which it is projected.
B. The rotational effect of the earth plays a role in computation of escape speed, however small it may be.
C. A body thrown in the eastward direction has less escape speed.
D. None of the above

Answer

C

Explanation

A minimum amount of energy equla to total energy of the moon earth system has to be given to break (unbound) the system. The sun is exerting force on the moon but not providing any energy.