If a rocket is launched with velocity less than Earth’s escape velocity, it will __________?

1. Escape Earth’s gravity
2. Enter elliptical orbit
3. Fall back to Earth
4. Travel to another planet

If launch velocity is below escape velocity, the object follows a ballistic trajectory, eventually succumbing to gravity. For example, suborbital rockets reach space but lack the speed to orbit or escape Earth permanently. If a rocket is launched with velocity less than Earth’s escape velocity, it will fall back on earth.