What Are the Speeds of the Fragments from a Space Rocket Explosion?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on a physics problem involving a rocket explosion, where a rocket at rest explodes into three equal mass pieces. One piece moves upward at 150 m/s, prompting questions about how to conserve momentum to determine the speeds of the other two pieces. Participants emphasize the importance of writing momentum equations for the pieces in both x and y directions, assuming no motion in the z direction. The conversation highlights the confusion around applying conservation of momentum principles in this scenario. Understanding these concepts is crucial for solving the problem effectively.
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Homework Statement


A rocket ship parked at rest in space suddenly explodes into 3 pieces of equal mass traveling in the directions shown. If the piece traveling upward has a speed of 150 m/s, what are the speeds of the other two pieces?

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


How do I conserve the momentum in this case? I'm clueless.
 

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I think you mean conserve momentum.
Can you say anything about horizontal momentum?
 
judas_priest said:

Homework Statement


A rocket ship parked at rest in space suddenly explodes into 3 pieces of equal mass traveling in the directions shown. If the piece traveling upward has a speed of 150 m/s, what are the speeds of the other two pieces?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


How do I conserve the momentum in this case? I'm clueless.

Write momentum equations for the three pieces in x and y. The assumption is that there is no z motion.
 
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