Two astronauts, one of mass 56 kg and the other90 kg , are initially at rest tog

Question

Two astronauts, one of mass 56 kg and the other90 kg , are initially at rest together in outer space. They then push each other apart.

Part A

How far apart are they when the lighter astronaut has moved 15 m ?

Express your answer to two significant figures and include the appropriate units.

Two astronauts, one of mass 56 kg and the other90 kg , are initially at rest together in outer space. They then push each other apart.

Part A

How far apart are they when the lighter astronaut has moved 15 m ?

Express your answer to two significant figures and include the appropriate units.

Explanation / Answer

From newton's third, whatever force they pushed each other with, each astronaut has the same force exerted on them but in opposite directions.

Calculations for Lighter Astronaut -
F = m*a

Initial Velcoity = 0
Acceleration = a
Distance = 15 m

S = 0.5*a*t^2
15 = 0.5*a*t^2
at^2 = 30
F = 56 * 30/t^2

Calculations for Heavy Astronaut -

Initial Velcoity = 0
Force = 56 * 30/t^2
Acceleration = A = F/m = (56 * 30/t^2) / 90
A = 56/(3* t^2)
Distance S = ?

S = 0.5*a*t^2
S = 0.5* 56/(3* t^2)*t^2
S = 9.33 m

Distance moved by Heavier Astronaut = 9.33m

Distance apart are the two Astronaut = 15 + 9.3 = 24.3 m

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