A research satellite is coasting through deep space with an initial linear momentum…
PHYSICS · Multi-part · AP · Physics 1: Algebra-based · Linear Momentum · Linear Momentum
Problem
A 1.0×103kg research satellite is coasting through deep space with an initial linear momentum of 8.0×102kgms−1 directed due east. The on-board computer fires two small thrusters, each of which delivers an impulse (a change in the satellite’s momentum) that is completed so quickly external forces can be ignored during each burn:
• Thruster P fires first and supplies an impulse of 5.0×102Ns due north.
• Thruster Q fires next and supplies an impulse of 3.0×102Ns due west.
Assume the satellite’s mass remains essentially constant during the burns.
(1) Part 1: (a) Represent the initial momentum and the two impulses as vectors arranged sequentially, head-to-tail, on a scale diagram. Label each vector and state the scale used.
(2) Part 2: (b) Using the graphical construction in part (a) or suitable analytical methods, find the components of the satellite’s final linear momentum vector with respect to the cardinal directions east and north.
(3) Part 3: (c) Determine the satellite’s speed and the compass direction of its motion after the second burn.
(4) Part 4: (d) Explain, citing your diagram and relevant physical laws, why adding the impulse vectors in the order fired produces the same final momentum as adding them in the reverse order.