How Much Fuel and Oxidizer is Required for a Rocket to Reach 10,000 m/s?

AI Thread Summary
To determine the fuel and oxidizer required for a rocket to reach 10,000 m/s with a total load of 3.10 metric tons and an exhaust speed of 2000 m/s, the momentum equation P = mv is applied. The total momentum needed is calculated as 31,000 metric tons m/s. However, the initial calculation suggests that 15.5 metric tons of fuel is needed, which is identified as incorrect. The discussion highlights the need to better understand how to quantify the work done by a specific mass of fuel. Clarification on the relationship between fuel mass and the required velocity is essential for solving the problem accurately.
cryptcougar
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Homework Statement


A rocket for use in deep space is to have the capability of boosting a total load (payload plus the rocket frame and engine) of 3.10 metric tons to a speed of 10 000 m/s.
(a) It has an engine and fuel designed to produce an exhaust speed of 2000 m/s. How much fuel plus oxidizer is required?


Homework Equations


P=mv


The Attempt at a Solution


P = mv
P = (3.10 metric tons) (10,000 m/s) = 31,000 metric tons m / s

mv (total) = mv (fuel)
31,000 metric tons m /s = m (2000 m/s)

m= 15.5 metric tons

^^ This is not the correct answer.
I just don't know where to go with this anymore...
 
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those two thing you wrote down as equal aren't, it would seem like you somehow need to quantify how much work a certain mass of fuel can do.
 
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