Net Force of a Model Rocket in Free Fall

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SUMMARY

The net force acting on a model rocket with a mass of 0.50 kg, fired vertically, is initially 2.0 N during its ascent under thrust. Once the fuel is exhausted after 6.0 seconds, the rocket enters free fall, where the only force acting on it is gravity, resulting in a net force of -4.9 N (downward). As it ascends, the net force is positive, but upon reaching the peak and turning around, the net force remains -4.9 N until it impacts the ground.

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A model rocket with a mass of 0.50 kg is fired vertically from the ground. Assume that it is streamlined enough that air resistance can be ignored. Suppose it ascends under the influence of a constant net force of 2.0 N acting in a vertical direction and travels for 6.0 s before its fuel is exhausted. Then it keeps moving as a particle-like object in free-fall as it continues upward, turns around, and falls back down.

What is the net force on the rocket when it continues upward as a free fall particle? as it turns around? When it is traveling back toward the ground?
 
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Welcome to PF!

Hi wicked_vixen! Welcome to PF! :smile:
wicked_vixen said:
… before its fuel is exhausted. Then it keeps moving as a particle-like object in free-fall as it continues upward, turns around, and falls back down.

What is the net force on the rocket when it continues upward as a free fall particle? as it turns around? When it is traveling back toward the ground?


What do you think?

What forces are acting on the rocket once the fuel stops?

Do they change, and if so, how? :smile:
 

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