A rocket of total mass 3180 kg is traveling in outer space with a velocity of 115 m/s toward the sun. it wishes to alter its course by 30.0°, and can do this by firing its rockets briefly in a direction perpendicular to its original motion. if the rocket gases are expelled at a speed of 1750 m/s, how much mass must be expelled?

Question

Charles Decker

Physics

8 July, 07:24

A rocket of total mass 3180 kg is traveling in outer space with a velocity of 115 m/s toward the sun. it wishes to alter its course by 30.0°, and can do this by firing its rockets briefly in a direction perpendicular to its original motion. if the rocket gases are expelled at a speed of 1750 m/s, how much mass must be expelled?

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Answers (1)

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Summer Alvarez · Answer 1

Let Vx = 115m/s

in order for the angle to be 30 degrees

tan 30 = Vy/115

Vy = 66.40 m/s

Using conservation of momentum:

m (1750) = (3180 - m) 66.40

1750m = 211152 - 66.40m

1750 m + 664.40 = 211152

1816.40 m = 211152

m = 211152 / 1816.40

m = 116.25 kg would be the answer