Could we get to the moon using only classical mechanics?

In summary, classical mechanics is able to accurately explain the dynamics of a spacecraft traveling to the moon, including the principles of motion and gravitational force. However, there are limitations to using only classical mechanics, such as the lack of consideration for relativity, quantum phenomena, and external forces. There are specific equations from classical mechanics that are crucial for a moon journey, and these principles also apply to a spacecraft's launch and landing on the moon. It is possible that incorporating modern physics with classical mechanics could result in a faster journey to the moon, but further research and development is needed in this area.
  • #1
mjordan2nd
177
1
I'm wondering if it's possible to send a man to the moon using only classical mechanics. If not, where would the classical equations fail?
 
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  • #2
Of course. That's how we got there in the first place. No one uses General Relativity for interplanetary travel. It's too complicated and the difference between GR's predictions and classical physics' predictions are extremely small at this scale. Small enough to not have to worry about GR at all.
 
  • #3
It's perfectly possible to fly to the moon using only classical mechanics.
In fact I believe it has already been done several times.
 

1. Can classical mechanics alone explain the dynamics of a spacecraft traveling to the moon?

Yes, classical mechanics can accurately describe the motion of a spacecraft traveling to the moon. This includes the principles of motion, such as Newton's laws of motion, and the gravitational force between the spacecraft and the moon.

2. What are the limitations of using only classical mechanics for a journey to the moon?

While classical mechanics can explain the motion of a spacecraft, it does not account for certain phenomena, such as the effects of relativity and the behavior of particles at the quantum level. Additionally, classical mechanics does not take into account the influence of external forces, such as solar winds, on a spacecraft's trajectory.

3. Are there any specific equations or formulas from classical mechanics that are crucial for a moon journey?

Yes, there are several equations from classical mechanics that are essential for a journey to the moon. These include Newton's second law of motion (F=ma), the law of universal gravitation (F=Gm1m2/r^2), and the equations for projectile motion.

4. How do the principles of classical mechanics apply to a spacecraft's launch and landing on the moon?

The principles of classical mechanics are crucial for a spacecraft's launch and landing on the moon. These include the use of propulsion systems to overcome the gravitational force of the Earth and the moon, and the precise calculation of the spacecraft's trajectory and velocity to ensure a successful landing.

5. Could we reach the moon faster if we used both classical mechanics and modern physics?

It is possible that using both classical mechanics and modern physics could result in a faster journey to the moon. Modern physics, such as Einstein's theory of relativity, can account for factors that are not included in classical mechanics, potentially allowing for more precise calculations and improvements in propulsion technology. However, this is still an area of ongoing research and development.

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