A spacecraft of mass is moving far away from any stars or planets so that…
PHYSICS · Multi-part · AP · Physics 1: Algebra-based · Force and Translational Dynamics · Force and Translational Dynamics
Problem
A spacecraft of mass 2000kg is moving far away from any stars or planets so that gravitational forces are negligible. While its main engine is working, it moves in a straight line at a constant velocity of 400m/s. At time t=0s the engine is switched off and no further external forces act on the spacecraft.
(i) What will be the velocity of the spacecraft at t=60s? Give a reason for your answer.
(ii) How far will the spacecraft travel in the 60s after the engine is switched off?
(iii) An astronaut inside the spacecraft releases a small tool from her hand exactly at t=0s. Describe the motion of the tool relative to (a) the astronaut, and (b) an observer outside the spacecraft.
(iv) Justify your answers in parts (ii) and (iii) with reference to the net external force acting on the spacecraft and the tool.