Changing the course of an asteroid

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on calculating the time required to deflect an asteroid on a collision course with Earth using a 2000N thruster. The asteroid's mass is specified as 1.3x1012 kg, and its initial velocity is 20,000 m/s. Participants emphasize the need to apply Newton's second law (F=ma) to determine acceleration and subsequently use the kinematic equation d=Vi*t+0.5*a*t2 to find the time needed for the deflection over a distance of 12 Earth diameters.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law (F=ma)
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations
  • Basic knowledge of vector components in physics
  • Concept of gravitational influences on asteroid trajectories
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of kinematic equations in physics problems
  • Learn about vector decomposition and its relevance in trajectory calculations
  • Research methods for asteroid deflection and current technologies
  • Explore the implications of gravitational forces on asteroid motion
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Students in physics, aerospace engineers, and anyone interested in planetary defense strategies against asteroid impacts.

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Homework Statement



Hello all,

I am really having trouble with following. I want to find the answer myself, but i do not know what equation/s i should apply to solve the problem.

My Question.

How long will it take to deflect an asteroid on a collision course with Earth by attaching a 2000N thruster. I must change the course of the asteroid by 12 Earth diameters. Mass of the Asteroid is 1.3x10^2 kg

Thank you in advance
 
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You have a distance that needs to be traveled. You have mass and force, so you have acceleration. How would you relate acceleration, distance and time?
 
minger said:
You have a distance that needs to be traveled. You have mass and force, so you have acceleration. How would you relate acceleration, distance and time?

Thanks for the reply

Presumably I rearrange F=ma to find the acceleration

F = 2000 N
m = mass of asteroid? 1.3x10^12

Since the asteroid has an initial velocity of (20,000 m/s) i suppose i should use the following equation (rearranged to find time):

d=Vi*t+0.5*a*t^2

Where
Vi = initial velocity (20,000 m/s)
a = acceleration (found in the first part)
t = time
d = distance (known)
 
No, remember that velocity is a vector, it has both magnitude and direction. Because it says that the astroid is on a collision course, you can assume that the direction is pointed directly towards Earth.

However, you simply want to change the course of it. What is the astroid's velocity in the two directions not towards earth?
 

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