MJJ

As I understand it, escape velocity refers to the speed necessary for an object to escape the gravity of a body. Could the speed be lower if the object takes a less direct (<90-degree) trajectory, such as a plane uses? If so, then does escape velocity only apply to a vertical takeoff and trajectory? Thanks.

Thank you very much, Tantalus.

I am wondering if "survival of the fittest" is actually what determines selection. I have read that it is survival of the fittest to reproduce or selection of the most successful at reproducing.