Deep Space I was launched on October 24, 1998, and uses a type of engine called

Question

Deep Space I was launched on October 24, 1998, and uses a type of engine called an ion propulsion drive. An ion drive delivers a very small amount of thrust (force), but is able to use a small amount of fuel for a large amount of time.

Suppose the probe, which as a mass of 474 kg, has an initial speed of 275 m/s. No other force acts on the probe except its ion engine’s thrust of 0.0560 N. The probe travels 2.42 X 109 m in order to reach its destination.

Assuming the change of the probe’s mass is negligible, what is the final speed of the probe, in units of meters per second and miles per hour?

Explanation / Answer

Given data: m = 474 kg, u =275 m/s, F =0.056, s =2.42x109 m

F =ma

a =F/m = 0.056/474 =1.18x10-4 m/s2

v2-u2=2as

v2=u2+2as

v2= (275)2 +(2x1.18x10-4x2.42x109 )

v 2 =(275)2 ++571120

v =804.2 m/s

1meter = 0.000621371 mile

1 s = 1h/3600

v =804.2x0.00062137`x3600 mile/h

v =1798.9 mile/h

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse D
• Subjects

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.