Question

A rocket weighs 9800N (opposing force) what is it mass? What netforce moves the rocket? What applied force gives it a vertical acceleration of 4m/sec

Answer 1

For the first part of this question, consider that "weight" can be described as mass x acceleration of gravity. Weight is expressed in Newtons. To solve for mass in this case, simply divide 9800N by 9.8m/s^2 (Earth's gravitational acceleration). This will give you a mass of 1000 kg. This mass is moved due to the net force supplied by the normal force from the rocket "pushing" off of Earth.

For the second part, we will use the equation F = ma, which is Newton's second law. For this, we know the m, or mass, is 1000 kg. Also, we know the a, or acceleration, will be 4 m/s^2. To solve for force, we will multiply both of these values. This gives a force of 4000 N. I hope this clears things up!