If a body is projected with speed less than escape velocity, then
a) the body can reach a certain height and may fall down following straight line path
b) the body can reach a certain height and may fall down following a parabolic path
c) the body may orbit the earth in a circular path
d) the body may orbit the earth in an elliptical path.

detailed solution

Correct option is D

If Velocity of projection (V) is less than Ve , the body cannot escape to infinity. If it is projected vertically upward, it will reach a certain height and fall down following a straight line path. If the body is projected horizontally from the top of a tower , it will orbit the earth in a circular path if V = Ve /√ 2  and orbit the earth in an elliptical path if Ve /√ 2  < V < Ve  and if V < Ve  . The body strikes the surface of earth following a parabolic path. So option - (4) is right.