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Laser Beam Propulsion 017 10.0 points An astronaut in a spacecraft moving with c

ID: 2036420 • Letter: L

Question

Laser Beam Propulsion 017 10.0 points An astronaut in a spacecraft moving with constant velocity wishes to increase the speed of the craft by using a laser beam attached to the spaceship. The laser beam emits 95 J of electromagnetic energy per pulse at the rate of 0.08 pulse/s. The mass of the spaceship plus its contents is 6092 kg The speed of light is 3 x 106 m/s. For how long must the beam be on in order to increase the speed of the vehicle by 0.5 m/s in the direction of its initial motion? 1. 48158600000.0 2. 113672000000.0 3. 70020500000.0 4. 34810900000.0 5. 127824000000.0 6. 65891500000.0 7. 120237000000.0 8. 51287700000.0

Explanation / Answer

We know that Change in momentum is given by:

F = dP/dt

F = m*dV/dt

Also Force is given by

F = P/V

V = speed of light = c

Total power carried by laser will be

Power = P = energy/time

P = E*f

f = frequency = 0.08 pulse/sec

F = E*f/(c)

E*f/c = m*dV/dt

dt = m*dV*c/(E*f)

Using given values:

dt = 6092*0.5*3*10^8/(95*0.08)

dt = 1.202*10^11 sec

Correct option is 7

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