Rocket Propulsion Homework: Calculating Travel Time

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a rocket propulsion problem involving a rocket's payload, fuel mass, and the calculation of travel time over a specified distance in outer space. The problem requires understanding the dynamics of rocket motion and the application of relevant equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the calculation of final velocity and the use of distance formulas, with one participant expressing uncertainty about missing variables needed for the calculations. Another participant emphasizes the importance of clearly defining equations and symbols used in the discussion.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants seeking clarification on the equations and variables involved. There is an emphasis on ensuring that all relevant information is accurately presented, but no consensus has been reached regarding the approach to the problem.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted discrepancy in the fuel mass provided, which has led to confusion among participants. The original poster's statement is questioned for clarity, indicating potential misunderstandings in the problem setup.

Psyguy22
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Homework Statement


A rocket in outer space has a payload of 4050.0 kg and 1.753·105 kg of fuel. The rocket can expel propellant at a speed of 4.300 km/s. Assume that the rocket starts from rest, accelerates to its final velocity, and then begins its trip. How long will it take the rocket to travel a distance of 3.82 ·105 km


Homework Equations


V [sub c] ln(m [sub i]/ m [sub f])<br /> <br /> <br /> <h2>The Attempt at a Solution</h2>
 
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I found the final velocity, but when i tried to use the formula for distance, I found that I didn't have r sub p or T max and have no clue how to find them.
 
You need to post all the equations you are referring to and define any symbols in them which might not be completely obvious to readers. (Even the "relevant equation" you posted is not an equation.)
 
Psyguy22 said:

Homework Statement


A rocket in outer space has a payload of 4050.0 kg and 1.753·105 kg of fuel. The rocket can expel propellant at a speed of 4.300 km/s. Assume that the rocket starts from rest, accelerates to its final velocity, and then begins its trip. How long will it take the rocket to travel a distance of 3.82 ·105 km
Psyguy22, please look at what you posted. You did not mean 1.753·105 kg of fuel, you meant 1.753·105 kg of fuel. There's a huge difference between 184.065 kilograms and 17,530 kilograms.
 

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