How can I fix my equation for finding initial velocity of a rocket?

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The discussion centers on correcting an equation for calculating the initial velocity of a rocket to reach a specific height. The provided equation, v^2 = 2g(R/(R+h)) - 2gR + V(0)^2, is claimed to be correct but leads to negative results. Concerns are raised about dimensional consistency, particularly with the term 2gR/(R+h) not matching 2gR. A typo is identified where velocity is incorrectly equated with velocity-squared, which is a significant error. The conversation emphasizes the need for careful attention to both dimensional analysis and mathematical accuracy in the equation.
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i was working on a differential equation to find the initial velocity of a rocket to get to height h.

so i have, which i got and its correct cause its the solution in the book, v^2 = 2g(R/(R+h))-2gR+V(0)^2

v = velocity
g = acceleration of gravity at Earth's surface
R= radius of earth
h = height
and i assume v(0) is the velocity v at height=0 so v(0)=0?

Problem is when i keep getting a negative number. so i assume I'm making an amateur mistake.

What am i doing wrong? I've tried converting etc. I am using km
 
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aquameatwad said:
i was working on a differential equation to find the initial velocity of a rocket to get to height h.

so i have, which i got and its correct cause its the solution in the book, v^2 = 2g(R/(R+h))-2gR+V(0)^2

Really? I'm concerned because the terms in your equation don't match dimensions. Specifically, 2gR/(R+h) does not match 2gR.

Make that very concerned. :rolleyes:
 
I'm trying to use this
diff-eqn-rocket.jpg

y = R (the radius of the earth) +h ( the height i want to reach).
 
The last equation looks OK except there's a minor typo in it. The equation before that is OK, so use it to solve for v0.
 
whats the typo?
 
aquameatwad said:
whats the typo?

Bottom equation, " v2 = v2 ". Equating velocity with velocity-squared is a no-no.
 
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