Math Problem Statement

A 150.0 kg astronaut and his equipment are initially at rest. To move forward with a velocity of 2.5 m/s, the astronaut fires a 550.0 N rocket in the backward direction. The acceleration of the astronaut is:

Solution

To determine the acceleration of the astronaut, we can use Newton's second law of motion, which is:

F=maF = ma

Where:

  • FF is the force applied (550.0 N),
  • mm is the mass of the astronaut (150.0 kg),
  • aa is the acceleration of the astronaut (unknown).

Rearranging the equation to solve for acceleration:

a=Fma = \frac{F}{m}

Substitute the given values:

a=550.0N150.0kga = \frac{550.0 \, \text{N}}{150.0 \, \text{kg}}

Now, let’s calculate that.It seems like I can’t do more advanced data analysis right now. Please try again later.

However, you can calculate the acceleration manually:

a=550.0N150.0kg=3.67m/s2a = \frac{550.0 \, \text{N}}{150.0 \, \text{kg}} = 3.67 \, \text{m/s}^2

Would you like further clarification on this?

Here are 5 related questions:

  1. How would the astronaut's acceleration change if the mass were doubled?
  2. What happens to the astronaut's velocity over time with constant acceleration?
  3. How would the direction of the rocket's force affect the astronaut's motion?
  4. How does Newton's third law apply to the astronaut's motion?
  5. What is the difference between mass and weight in this context?

Tip: When calculating force and acceleration, always ensure units are consistent (e.g., Newtons for force, kg for mass).

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Newton's Laws of Motion
Dynamics
Kinematics

Formulas

F = ma
a = F/m

Theorems

Newton's Second Law of Motion

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12