Rocket Acceleration: Find Magnitude & Direction

In summary, a rocket of mass 4.70E+5 kg with a thrust of 7.39E+6 N at an angle of 50.8° above the horizontal has a resultant acceleration of 1.57x10^11m/s^2. To determine the angle, trigonometric equations may be used alongside a diagram of the geometry.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



A rocket of mass 4.70E+5 kg is in flight. Its thrust is directed at an angle of 50.8° above the horizontal and has a magnitude of 7.39E+6 N. Calculate the magnitude (enter first) and direction of the rocket's acceleration. Give the direction as an angle above the horizontal.


Homework Equations



F=ma
7.39x10^6N/4.70x10^5kg = 1.57x10^11m/s^2 is the Resultant Acceleration in a Vector Triangle. How do you determine the angle ? or is the one given in the Question.


The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Your acceleration is not correct. Assuming that the rocket fly near something with a horizon you most likely need to include one more force. Incidentally, the result of your calculation is also wrong (the magnitude of the number is way too big).

Regarding the angle, it may help to draw a diagram of the geometry and then see if some trigonometric equations can help you out.
 

FAQ: Rocket Acceleration: Find Magnitude & Direction

What is rocket acceleration?

Rocket acceleration is the rate of change of a rocket's velocity over time. It is a measure of how quickly a rocket's speed and direction are changing.

How is rocket acceleration calculated?

Rocket acceleration is calculated by dividing the change in velocity by the change in time. This is known as the average acceleration and is represented by the formula a = (v2-v1)/(t2-t1), where v2 and v1 are the final and initial velocities, and t2 and t1 are the final and initial times.

What is the magnitude of rocket acceleration?

The magnitude of rocket acceleration is the absolute value of its numerical value. This represents the strength or intensity of the acceleration, regardless of its direction.

What is the direction of rocket acceleration?

The direction of rocket acceleration depends on the forces acting on the rocket. If the net force is in the same direction as the rocket's motion, the acceleration will be in the same direction. If the net force is in the opposite direction, the acceleration will be in the opposite direction.

How does rocket acceleration affect the rocket's trajectory?

Rocket acceleration plays a crucial role in determining the rocket's trajectory. A greater acceleration will result in a steeper trajectory, while a smaller acceleration will result in a flatter trajectory. The direction of the acceleration also affects the angle of the rocket's path, as well as its destination.

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