The discussion explores the theoretical effects of launching a space shuttle on the Earth's motion, specifically focusing on the implications of the mass change of the Earth due to the shuttle's launch. Participants consider the effects on kinetic energy, momentum, and velocity, while also questioning the terminology used to describe these effects.
Participants express differing views on the terminology used to describe the effects of launching the shuttle, particularly regarding the use of "theoretical" versus "minuscule." The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specific calculations and implications of the mass change on Earth's motion.
Participants have not reached consensus on the calculations related to kinetic energy, momentum, and velocity changes, and there are unresolved questions about the assumptions made regarding the gas pillar and the direction of the rocket's launch.
Can you do any of these calculations yourself? And why do you say "theoretical"? Do you not believe that the effects would be real?EMguy said:Assume we shoot a space shuttle of mass m to space. We know it affects the Earth's mass M by decreasing it to M2 = M-m. Assume that the gas pillar that the space shuttle shoots has no effects on earth, what would be the theoretical effects on kinetic energy, momentum and velocity of the Earth by the decreased mass, although miniscule obviously?
I would assume that the momentum remained constant cause of the assumption of gas pillar having no effect, i.e no recoil effects? Then velocity would be increased with the decreased mass? Correct? Incorrect?phinds said:Can you do any of these calculations yourself? And why do you say "theoretical"? Do you not believe that the effects would be real?
What are the components of momentum? Do they stay the same?EMguy said:I would assume that the momentum remained constant cause of the assumption of gas pillar having no effect, i.e no recoil effects?
Would it matter in what direction the rocket was launched?Then velocity would be increased with the decreased mass? Correct? Incorrect?
OK, but that's poor terminology. If you mean minuscule, SAY minuscule.And by theoretical i mean real... just theoretical relating to the effects being miniscule.