HELP What are 10 principles of physics applied to a space shuttle launch?

Fluid dynamics- how the shuttle moves through air7 Rocket propulsion- how the shuttle is propelled into space8 Inertia- why the shuttle continues to move after launch9 Centripetal force- keeps the shuttle in orbit10 Escape velocity- the minimum speed needed to leave the Earth's orbitIn summary, ten principles of physics can be applied to a space shuttle launch: Newton's three laws, Newton's law of gravitation, aerodynamics, work-energy theorem, conservation of energy, equal and opposite reaction, quantum physics, electromagnetic waves, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, rocket propulsion, inertia, centripetal force, and escape velocity. These principles help to understand the motion, energy, and forces involved in a space
  • #1
cairo
Hey, can someone please help me with this? *restates question* I need 10 principles of physics applied to a space shuttle launch. Thanks!
 
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  • #2
Uh. I don't really understand the question.

F=ma pretty much sums it up.

What sort of 'principles' are you looking for?
 
  • #3
Well, the reason you're going to get hung up is the word 'principles.' Although you'll probably be taught that such things as

[tex]s(t) = v_0 t + \frac{1}{2} a t^2[/tex]

are principles, you'll find that more and more experienced physicists regard very few things indeed as principles, and consider those kinds of equations to be derivatives of the principles.

These kinds of questions are usually the kind of questions designed by teachers who have decided to relabel what other people would not call principles for the purposes of making their classes remember them.

Here are a few ideas to get you started.

The motion of ANY body must deal with Newton's three laws.

Any body moving in a gravitational field has to contend with Newton's law of gravitation.

The principles of aerodynamics, like drag, are important for anybody moving within the atmosphere.

The work-energy theorem explains how the shuttle trades potential for kinetic energy.

The conservation of energy means the same energy that is spent getting the shuttle up must also be dissipated when the shuttle comes back down.

That's seven...

- Warren
 
  • #4
This is just me thinking, by no means am I an expert in physics
1 equal and opposite reaction
2 Quantum Physics- the combustion of rocket fuel
3 Electromagnetic waves- communications
4 Trajectory and orbiting objects
5 Thermodynamics – tiles on shuttle to keep it from burning up
 

1. What is the principle of inertia and how is it applied in a space shuttle launch?

The principle of inertia states that an object at rest will remain at rest and an object in motion will remain in motion unless acted upon by an external force. In a space shuttle launch, the rocket engines provide the external force needed to overcome the inertia of the shuttle and propel it into motion.

2. How does Newton's second law of motion apply to a space shuttle launch?

Newton's second law of motion states that the force acting on an object is equal to its mass multiplied by its acceleration. In a space shuttle launch, the rocket engines provide a force that is greater than the weight of the shuttle, allowing it to accelerate upwards.

3. What is the role of friction in a space shuttle launch?

Friction plays a critical role in a space shuttle launch. The shuttle must overcome the force of air resistance, which is caused by friction between the shuttle and the Earth's atmosphere. To minimize this friction, the shuttle is designed with a streamlined shape and uses heat-resistant materials to protect it from the intense heat generated by friction during re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere.

4. How does the principle of action and reaction apply to a space shuttle launch?

The principle of action and reaction, also known as Newton's third law of motion, states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. In a space shuttle launch, the rocket engines produce a force that propels the shuttle upwards, while the shuttle exerts an equal and opposite force on the rocket engines, allowing them to continue burning and providing thrust.

5. What is the role of gravity in a space shuttle launch?

Gravity plays a crucial role in a space shuttle launch. The force of gravity pulls the shuttle towards the Earth, causing it to accelerate towards the ground. In order to overcome this force, the shuttle must achieve a certain velocity, known as escape velocity, to break free from the Earth's gravitational pull and enter orbit.

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