Magnitude of Initial velocity of Spacecraft

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the magnitude of the initial velocity of the spacecraft, the correct approach involves using the final velocity components vx = 3782 m/s and vy = 4842 m/s. The magnitude of the velocity vector is determined by the formula |v| = √(vx² + vy²), which results in a magnitude of approximately 6000 m/s. The discussion highlights confusion regarding the use of equations, specifically the SUVAT equations for motion with constant acceleration. Participants emphasize the importance of correctly applying vector magnitude calculations rather than misinterpreting initial velocity components. Understanding these concepts is crucial for solving the problem accurately.
dragon18
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On a spacecraft two engines fire for a time of 572 s. One gives the craft an acceleration in the x direction of ax = 5.15 m/s2, while the other produces an acceleration in the y direction of ay = 7.41 m/s2. At the end of the firing period, the craft has velocity components of vx = 3782 m/s and vy = 4842 m/s. Calculate the magnitude of the initial velocity.


I'm not sure what equations to use.



Attempt
add the square root of 3782 and the square root of 4842
take the square root of the sum 131.082
=11.42 m/s(incorrect)
 
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I'm not sure what equations to use.
This is motion with constant acceleration isn't it?
Use the suvat equations.

Attempt
add the square root of 3782 and the square root of 4842
take the square root of the sum 131.082
You are saying you did: ##\sqrt{\sqrt{v_x}+\sqrt{x_y}}## ?
=11.42 m/s(incorrect)
Well yes - it would be.

1. those numbers are the final velocities
2. the magnitude of a vector is ##|\vec{v}|=\sqrt{v_x^2+v_y^2}##
 
Last edited:
so do I use the equation v=u+at?
 
Try it and see.
 
which number do I use though? It keeps telling me its wrong no matter what I put
 
Please show your working.
 
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