HELP What are 10 principles of physics applied to a space shuttle launch?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around identifying ten principles of physics that apply to a space shuttle launch. Participants explore various concepts and principles relevant to the mechanics, dynamics, and physics involved in the launch process.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the clarity of the term 'principles' and suggests that F=ma encapsulates fundamental concepts.
  • Another participant emphasizes that many equations, such as the motion equation s(t) = v_0 t + 1/2 a t^2, are often seen as derivatives of deeper principles rather than principles themselves.
  • Newton's three laws of motion are proposed as essential principles governing the motion of any body, including the shuttle.
  • Newton's law of gravitation is mentioned as a critical principle for objects moving in a gravitational field.
  • Aerodynamics, particularly the concept of drag, is highlighted as important for objects moving within the atmosphere.
  • The work-energy theorem is noted for explaining the trade-off between potential and kinetic energy during the shuttle's ascent and descent.
  • The conservation of energy is discussed in the context of energy expenditure during launch and re-entry.
  • Another participant lists principles including equal and opposite reactions, quantum physics related to rocket fuel combustion, electromagnetic waves for communication, trajectory and orbiting objects, and thermodynamics concerning shuttle tiles to prevent burning.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing interpretations of what constitutes a 'principle' in physics, leading to multiple competing views on the topic. The discussion remains unresolved regarding a definitive list of ten principles.

Contextual Notes

There is an ongoing debate about the definitions and classifications of principles versus equations in physics, which may affect the responses provided. Some assumptions about what constitutes a principle may not be universally accepted.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students seeking to understand the application of physics principles in aerospace contexts, as well as educators looking for insights into common misconceptions about physics terminology.

cairo
Hey, can someone please help me with this? *restates question* I need 10 principles of physics applied to a space shuttle launch. Thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Uh. I don't really understand the question.

F=ma pretty much sums it up.

What sort of 'principles' are you looking for?
 
Well, the reason you're going to get hung up is the word 'principles.' Although you'll probably be taught that such things as

[tex]s(t) = v_0 t + \frac{1}{2} a t^2[/tex]

are principles, you'll find that more and more experienced physicists regard very few things indeed as principles, and consider those kinds of equations to be derivatives of the principles.

These kinds of questions are usually the kind of questions designed by teachers who have decided to relabel what other people would not call principles for the purposes of making their classes remember them.

Here are a few ideas to get you started.

The motion of ANY body must deal with Newton's three laws.

Any body moving in a gravitational field has to contend with Newton's law of gravitation.

The principles of aerodynamics, like drag, are important for anybody moving within the atmosphere.

The work-energy theorem explains how the shuttle trades potential for kinetic energy.

The conservation of energy means the same energy that is spent getting the shuttle up must also be dissipated when the shuttle comes back down.

That's seven...

- Warren
 
This is just me thinking, by no means am I an expert in physics
1 equal and opposite reaction
2 Quantum Physics- the combustion of rocket fuel
3 Electromagnetic waves- communications
4 Trajectory and orbiting objects
5 Thermodynamics – tiles on shuttle to keep it from burning up
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 24 ·
Replies
24
Views
6K
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
3K
Replies
36
Views
7K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
3K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
5K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 29 ·
Replies
29
Views
6K