A space vehicle is coasting at a constant velocity of 20.9 m/s in the +y directi

Question

A space vehicle is coasting at a constant velocity of 20.9 m/s in the +y direction relative to a space station. The pilot of the vehicle fires a RCS (reaction control system) thruster, which causes it to accelerate at 0.330 m/s2 in the +x direction. After 55.6 s, the pilot shuts off the RCS thruster. After the RCS thruster is turned off, find (a) the magnitude and (b) the direction of the vehicle's velocity relative to the space station. Express the direction as an angle (in degrees) measured from the +y direction.

Explanation / Answer

Vy = v + at = 20.9 + 0 = 20.9 m/s Vx = v + at = 0 + 0.330(55.6s) = 18.3m/s V = sqrt (20.9 m/s^ 2 + 18.3m/s ^ 2) = 27.8m/s the angle A is tan A = Vy/Vx so tan A = 20.9/18.3. A = 48.7 deg above the horizontal which is (90-48.7) = 41.2 deg east of the vertical y direciton

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse A
• Subjects

---

---

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