How we cite our quotes: (Part.Chapter.Line)
Quote #1
Everything is moving already. But to get something from the (moving) surface of the Earth into orbit around it, requires a minimum Δv of ten kilometers per second; to leave Earth's orbit and fly to Mars requires a minimum Δv of 3.6 kilometers per second; and to orbit Mars and land on it requires a Δv of about one kilometer per second. The hardest part is leaving Earth behind, for that is by far the deepest gravity well involved. (2.2.99)
Δv stands for Delta-v, or change in velocity. So now you know that. Yay. With that said, notice how the novel uses a scientific term like Δv to suggest something very human. In this case, the difficulty in leaving Earth is not simply a matter of velocity versus gravity well.
Quote #2
"You've got to admit Phyllis is right about that part—we don't understand the why of things at all." (2.3.31)
Science is designed to explain how things work, not why. The characters will have to deal with the why of life throughout the novel, so it's a good thing science hasn't answered that question. That would make for a very short novel.
Quote #3
"Now we are on our own, and I for one have no intention of repeating all of Earth's mistakes just because of conventional thinking. We are the first Martian colonists! We are scientists! It is our job to think things new, to make them new!" (2.3.89)
Science does create new stuff, but is it really science's job to make human society and culture new? Shouldn't that be, like, everyone's job? Either way, keep fighting the good fight, Arkady.