Deriving the relativistic rocket equation

In summary, the conversation is about trying to apply relativistic mass ejection to Morin's derivation of the rocket equation propelled by photons. The problem at hand is determining the correct value of gamma and beta for the momentum observed from the ground frame. The solution involves using the correct formula for gamma and beta, which are related to the speed of the ejected mass and the exhaust speed of the rocket. The final equation for the momentum observed from the ground frame is provided.
  • #1
timetraveller123
621
45

Homework Statement


so i read morin's derivation of rocket equation propelled by photons now i want to try for relativistic mass ejection but i am having some problems

let subscript e denote quantities of ejected material and subscript of r denote quantities of rocket

Homework Equations


##
P = \gamma (P' + \frac{v E'}{c^2})\\
P = \gamma m v\\
E = \gamma m c^2
##

The Attempt at a Solution


syaing the rocket is currently moving at speed v then if ejects dm at exhaust speed u its mass becomes v + dv and mass of m-dm

then as viewed from the rocket is
conservation of energy becomes
##
E'_e = mc^2 -(m-dm)c^2 = dm c^2
##
as mass is not conserved other form of energy of the ejected mass maybe written as
##
E'_e = \gamma _ e m' c^2
##
where m' is the observed mass of ejected mass
so
##
dm = \gamma _e m'
##
thus the momentum observed from rocket is
##
p_e' = \gamma _e m' u = dm u
##
is that correct please correct me if its wrong
so as viewed from the ground frame is
##
P_e = \gamma (P'_e + \beta \frac{E'_e}{c})
##
now my question is if the gamma corresponds to speed v or v+dv similary for the beta
##
\gamma = \frac{1}{\sqrt{1 - \frac{v^2}{c^2}}}\\
\gamma = \frac{1}{\sqrt{1 - \frac{(v+dv)^2}{c^2}}}\\
##
which one is the correct one morin used the first one but why that
because by the time rocket measured the momentum of the ejected mass its already moving v + dv with respect to ground so shouldn't it be the second gamma
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
##P_e = \gamma (P'_e + \beta \frac{E'_e}{c})\\P_e = \frac{1}{\sqrt{1 - \frac{(v+dv)^2}{c^2}}} (dm u + \beta \frac{dm c^2}{c})\\##where ##\beta = \frac{v+dv}{c}##is that correct
 

1. What is the relativistic rocket equation?

The relativistic rocket equation is a mathematical formula that describes the motion of a rocket in a gravitational field, taking into account both special relativity and Newton's laws of motion. It is used to calculate the velocity and position of a rocket at any given time during its journey.

2. How is the relativistic rocket equation derived?

The equation is derived by combining the principles of special relativity, which describe the behavior of objects moving at high speeds, with Newton's laws of motion, which govern the motion of objects in a gravitational field. This results in a more accurate prediction of a rocket's motion compared to using Newton's laws alone.

3. What are the key components of the relativistic rocket equation?

The key components of the equation include the rocket's initial mass, its velocity, and the rate at which fuel is expended. These factors are all affected by the rocket's motion in both space and time, as described by special relativity.

4. How is the relativistic rocket equation used in real-world applications?

The equation is used in various fields, such as astrophysics and aerospace engineering, to accurately predict the motion of rockets and other objects in space. It is also used in the design and optimization of rocket propulsion systems.

5. What are some limitations of the relativistic rocket equation?

The equation assumes a perfect vacuum and does not take into account external forces such as air resistance or gravitational pull from other objects. It also does not account for the effects of fuel consumption on the rocket's mass. Additionally, it is only applicable to objects traveling at high speeds.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
889
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
594
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
14
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
15
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
2
Replies
42
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
232
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
669
Back
Top