Calculate Astronaut's Velocity After Throwing Oxygen Tank | Outer Space Question

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The discussion revolves around calculating the astronaut's velocity after throwing a 10 kg oxygen tank at 12 m/s. Participants emphasize using the conservation of momentum principle, noting that the total momentum before the throw is zero, so it must remain zero afterward. The initial calculations suggest the astronaut's velocity is -1.9 m/s, indicating movement in the opposite direction, but there is confusion with another participant suggesting -9.1 m/s. The conversation highlights the importance of distinguishing between speed and velocity, as the question specifically asks for velocity. Ultimately, the correct interpretation of the problem leads to a consensus on the astronaut's backward velocity.
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Homework Statement


A 63 kg astronaut at rest in space throws a 10 kg oxygen tank with a speed of 12 m/s. What is the velocity of the astronaut immediately after throwing the tank?


Which formula would I use to solve this? Thanks in advance.
 
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Mike667 said:

Homework Statement


A 63 kg astronaut at rest in space throws a 10 kg oxygen tank with a speed of 12 m/s. What is the velocity of the astronaut immediately after throwing the tank?


Which formula would I use to solve this? Thanks in advance.

Conservation of momentum. Here, the total momentum before was zero. so th etotal momentum after will be zero.
 
Yes, that's what i was thinking. thanks again.
 
Is the answer 1.9 m/s?
 
I get ...120/63.
 
denverdoc said:
I get ...120/63.

oh really?:rolleyes:

actually, its -1.9 m/s because the astronaut goes backwards.
 
Last edited:
Mike667 said:
oh really?:rolleyes:

actually, its -9.1 m/s because the astronaut goes backwards.

I think you may mean -1.9m/s
 
Haha, yeah ill change it.
 
Mike667 said:
oh really?:rolleyes:

actually, its -9.1 m/s because the astronaut goes backwards.

Yes, and I actually chose the sign convention as such. Good lord trying to be helpful. And you'll notice, the question states the problems in terms of speed and asks for velocity. Either answer is correct.
 

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