A probe departing a planet has a measured total mechanical energy of +5.0×109J with respect to the planet after it clears the atmosphere. Which statement best describes the path the probe will follow?
a) It follows a parabolic escape trajectory, coming to rest only at an infinite distance from the planet.
b) It enters an elliptical orbit and remains gravitationally bound to the planet.
c) It follows a hyperbolic trajectory and will not return to the planet.
d) It settles into a circular orbit at a constant altitude above the planet.