Why Does Thrust Differ for Objects of Different Mass in Space?

In summary, in space, objects may be weightless but they still have mass and therefore require more thrust to move a heavier object compared to a lighter object. This is due to Newton's third law, which states that F=ma and mass is the resistance to acceleration. Although weight is only affected by gravity, mass resists acceleration regardless of gravity's presence.
  • #1
DarkElfa
2
0
I've always wondered about something. If there is no gravity or resistance in space, than why does it take more thrust to move a 1 ton object than a 1 pound object. Shouldn't thy both both be equally easy to move since neither has any weight in space?
 
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  • #2
Even though they may be weightless, they still have mass. Newton's third law is F=ma, therefore to accelerate the same amount, a more massive object requires more thrust (force).
 
  • #3
Why does mass matter if it doesn't have weight?
 
  • #4
Mass is the resistance to acceleration. Weight is only the way in which gravity effects (and is effected by) mass, but mass resists acceleration whether there is gravity or not.

Also, the same amount of force will move a 1-pound object and[i/] a 1-ton object in space; it just won't move the 1-ton object nearly as fast.
 

FAQ: Why Does Thrust Differ for Objects of Different Mass in Space?

1. What is the relationship between thrust and mass?

The relationship between thrust and mass can be described by Newton's Second Law of Motion, which states that force (thrust) is equal to mass multiplied by acceleration. In other words, the greater the mass of an object, the more thrust is needed to accelerate it.

2. How does increasing mass affect thrust?

Increasing mass will require more thrust to achieve the same acceleration. This is because the greater the mass, the more force is needed to overcome its inertia and accelerate it.

3. Is thrust or mass more important for propulsion?

Both thrust and mass are important for propulsion. Thrust is the force that propels an object forward, while mass determines the amount of force needed to accelerate the object. Ideally, a balance between thrust and mass should be achieved for efficient propulsion.

4. Can thrust compensate for a heavier mass?

Yes, thrust can compensate for a heavier mass to a certain extent. However, as mass increases, more thrust is needed to achieve the same acceleration. There is a limit to how much thrust can compensate for a heavy mass.

5. How does thrust affect the speed of an object?

Thrust is directly related to the speed of an object. The greater the thrust, the greater the acceleration and the faster the object will move. However, as mass increases, more thrust is needed to achieve the same speed.

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