How Does Rocket Propulsion Affect Velocity and Position in Physics Problems?

In summary, we have a rocket that is fired vertically upwards from rest and burns fuel at a constant rate k. The exhaust gases are ejected vertically downwards with constant speed u relative to the rocket. The initial mass of the rocket is M', half of which is fuel. During this time, air resistance is neglected and the Earth's gravitational field gives an acceleration of constant magnitude g. We need to find the speed of the rocket when the fuel runs out, which is given by uln2-gM'/2k, and also the distance it has traveled at this time.In exercise 2, we are given the kinetic energy K of a mass m moving at velocity v according to Einstein's theory of special relativity. We need to show
  • #1
winlinux
7
0
6. A rocket is fired vertically upwards from rest and burns fuel at a constant rate k, and the exhaust gases are ejected vertically downwards with constant speed u relative to the rocket. The initial mass of the rocket is M', half of which is fuel. During the time that the fuel is being burned, air resistance may be neglected and the Earth’s gravitational field may be assumed to give rise to an acceleration of constant magnitude g, where ku >M'g. Show that the speed of the rocket when the fuel runs out is given by
uln2-gM'/2k, and find the distance traveled at this time.


2.According to Einstein’s theory of special relativity, the kinetic energy K of a mass m moving at velocity v is given by

K=[(mc^2)/(1-(v/c)^2)^0.5]-mc^2

Show that at v<<c, the kinetic energy of the mass reduced to the Newtonian expression.


5. (10 marks)
Two identical particles of mass m attract each other with a force that obeys Newton’s third law. They are initially at rest on a smooth inclined plane which has an angle of inclination of 45 degrees w.r.t. the horizontal. Find the acceleration of the center of mass of the system.

how to solve them?
thanks!
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
for 6,
Note that F = dp/dt where p is momentum

for 2,
do u know binomial expansion?
(note : v<<c implies v/c << 1)

for 5,
to me this seems equivalent to two balls held by a rod...
(i may be wrong ... its night time and sometimes my brain doesn't really work that well)

-- AI
 
  • #3
can anyone give me more hints?
thanks!
 
  • #4
Can't you take one exercise at a time and write in detail your thoughts about it, and what you are uncertain about?
(This isn't just because we're lazy, but it will make you clarify for yourself as well your level of knowledge, and hence, what you need to become better at)
 
  • #5
in no.6
now i know 'u ln2' is come from v=uln(M'/0.5M')
but "-gM'/2k",how come can anyone explain to me?
 

Related to How Does Rocket Propulsion Affect Velocity and Position in Physics Problems?

1. What is the formula for calculating the speed of a rocket?

The formula for calculating the speed of a rocket is: speed = change in distance / change in time, or v = Δd/Δt.

2. How is the speed of a rocket related to its acceleration?

The speed of a rocket is directly related to its acceleration. The greater the acceleration, the faster the rocket will travel. This is because acceleration is the rate of change of velocity, which is the measure of an object's speed and direction.

3. Can the speed of a rocket exceed the speed of light?

No, according to Einstein's theory of relativity, the speed of light is the maximum speed at which any object can travel. Therefore, the speed of a rocket cannot exceed the speed of light.

4. How does air resistance affect the speed of a rocket?

Air resistance, also known as drag, can significantly affect the speed of a rocket. As the rocket moves through the air, it experiences a force in the opposite direction of its motion, which can slow it down. This is why rockets are designed with streamlined shapes and use powerful engines to overcome air resistance and maintain high speeds.

5. How can the speed of a rocket be increased?

The speed of a rocket can be increased by increasing its thrust, which is the force produced by the rocket's engines. This can be achieved by using more powerful engines or by reducing the mass of the rocket, which allows it to accelerate faster. Additionally, minimizing air resistance and taking advantage of gravitational assist from other celestial bodies can also help increase the speed of a rocket.

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