Model Rocket Flight: Graphing Acceleration, Velocity, and Height

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on modeling the flight of a model rocket by graphing acceleration, velocity, and height over time. The rocket experiences an upward acceleration until it runs out of fuel, after which it accelerates downward at 9.81 m/s² due to gravity. Participants seek to understand the general shape and direction of the acceleration vs. time, velocity vs. time, and height vs. time graphs, emphasizing the need for sketches rather than precise numerical values. Key insights include the assumption of constant acceleration during the powered flight phase.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts such as acceleration and gravity.
  • Familiarity with graphing techniques for representing motion.
  • Knowledge of kinematic equations related to projectile motion.
  • Ability to interpret and sketch graphs based on physical scenarios.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research kinematic equations for uniformly accelerated motion.
  • Learn how to graph acceleration, velocity, and height for projectile motion.
  • Explore the effects of drag and other forces on model rocket flight.
  • Study the principles of free fall and its impact on motion after fuel depletion.
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, model rocket enthusiasts, educators teaching motion concepts, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of rocket flight.

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A model rocket is launched with an upward acceleration, after t seconds it runs out of fuel at x height. Sketch the a vs. t, v vs. t, and position vs. t graphs for the rocket from the time of launch until the moment it reaches max height.

-I know that after the rocket runs out of fuel it will accelerate at 9.81m/s^2 down..other than that I'm having a hard time tackling this question.
-The graphs only have to be sketches (no numbers)
-I know this will be hard to answer in words..I just need a general idea of the shape and direction of the curve for each graph.
 
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What does the height/time curve look like before it runs out of fuel?
You can probably assume constant acceleration from the motor
 

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