Mass of the rocket doesnt stay constant

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    Constant Mass Rocket
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the complexities of rocket physics, particularly the non-constant mass of rockets during flight. Participants explore various aspects of this topic, including stages of flight, fuel consumption, and potential relativistic effects.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that the mass of the rocket changes due to fuel consumption across different flight stages (take off, level flight, descent).
  • Another participant suggests that relativity may play a role, mentioning that mass increases with speed and that dimensions may change in the direction of thrust.
  • A different participant expresses doubt that relativity will be covered in the class.
  • One participant recommends using conservation of momentum as a relevant principle in understanding rocket dynamics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relevance of relativity in the context of the class, and there is no consensus on the primary focus of the discussion regarding the complexities of rocket mass.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the application of relativity and the specific stages of flight are not fully explored, and the discussion does not resolve how these factors interact with the principles of rocket motion.

spri4
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My physics class is ending the year with the study of rockets. He said it will be one of the most difficult studys of physics because the mass of the rocket doesn't stay constant. What do you think? Any hints/tips you would like to share? Thank you.
 
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Hints? Tips? ummmmmmmm... PAY ATTENTION ;)

But seriously it shouldn't be that hard, you just have to factor in how much weight in fuel the rockets are averaging over 3 stages in flight (take off, level flight, descent) as each will be different. But, then we should also remember relativity, which states that mass increases as speed increases, and that size (in the direction of thrust) also becomes smaller.
 
AzonicZeniths said:
Hints? Tips? ummmmmmmm... PAY ATTENTION ;)

But seriously it shouldn't be that hard, you just have to factor in how much weight in fuel the rockets are averaging over 3 stages in flight (take off, level flight, descent) as each will be different. But, then we should also remember relativity, which states that mass increases as speed increases, and that size (in the direction of thrust) also becomes smaller.

I don't think relativity will be in this class
 
Use conservation of momentum.
 

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