Conceptual question on momentum

AI Thread Summary
An astronaut in space, with a broken tether and no rocket pack, must find a way to return to his ship using a wrench. The concept of momentum conservation is central to solving this problem, as traditional paddling won't work due to the lack of resistance in space. Suggestions include using the wrench to throw it away from the ship, creating a reaction force that propels him back. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding momentum in a vacuum. Ultimately, the astronaut must utilize the principles of physics to navigate back effectively.
Bob Loblaw
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Homework Statement



An astronaut is on a space walk when his tether breaks. He has no rocket pack, only a big wrench. How does he get back to the ship?

Homework Equations



p=mv

The Attempt at a Solution



I have no idea. I imagined him using the wrench as some sort of "paddle" as he space-canoed his way back to the ship. Any more realistic ideas?
 
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Think conservation of linear momentum. paddle won't work because there's only empty space there... nothing to push against.
 

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