Math Problem Statement
In 1977 the planet Alderaan, with a mass of 3 × 1024 kg, exploded. Assuming it was initially at rest and experienced no external interactions, If the planet blew apart into two pieces with 40% of its mass flying away in one piece at 4,000 km/s, what speed did the rest of the planet have relative to its original frame?
Solution
To solve this problem, we will apply the principle of conservation of momentum, since the planet is initially at rest and there are no external forces acting on it.
Step-by-step solution:
- **Given dataTo solve this problem, we will apply the principle of conservation of momentum, since the planet is initially at rest and there are no external forces acting on it.
Step-by-step solution:
-
**Given **
- Total mass of the planet, .
- 40% of the mass flies away in one piece, which means mass of this piece is:
- Speed of this piece, .
- The remaining mass is 60% of the planet’s mass, i.e.:
-
Conservation of momentum: Since the planet was initially at rest, the total momentum before the explosion was zero. After the explosion, the momentum of the two pieces must also sum to zero. Therefore: where is the velocity of the second piece (the remaining mass).
Rearranging for :
-
Substitute the known values: Simplifying:
So, the speed of the remaining 60% of the planet is , or 2,670 km/s in the opposite direction.
Final answer:
The remaining 60% of the planet moves at 2,670 km/s in the direction opposite to the first piece.
Would you like further clarification on any part of this? Here are 5 related questions you might find interesting:
- How does the law of conservation of momentum apply to collisions?
- What are some examples of explosions in space where this principle is applied?
- How does relativistic momentum differ from classical momentum?
- What would happen if external forces were present in this explosion?
- How would the speeds change if the mass proportions were different?
Tip: Always ensure the units are consistent (e.g., converting km to m) when applying physical formulas.
Ask a new question for Free
By Image
Drop file here or Click Here to upload
Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Conservation of Momentum
Algebra
Formulas
m1 * v1 + m2 * v2 = 0
v2 = -(m1 * v1) / m2
Theorems
Law of Conservation of Momentum
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 10-12
Related Recommendation
Find the Distance of an Object from a Planet Using Conservation of Energy
Astronaut Momentum Problem: Conservation of Momentum in Space
Calculate Astronaut's Recoil Speed Using Conservation of Momentum
Velocity of Combined Masses After Inelastic Collision: 60 kg and 1800 kg Objects
Projectile Motion and Conservation of Momentum: Exploding Bullet Problem